California border patrol agents seize 370 pounds of illicit narcotics across separate incidents

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents stationed at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa Ports of Entry in California recently seized three separate shipments of illicit narcotics, totaling 370 pounds.

The narcotics, which included 316 pounds of methamphetamine and 55 pounds of cocaine, carried an estimated street value of approximately $2.5 million.

Officers reportedly discovered the narcotics concealed within various places within vehicles, including a spare tire, rear seats, and a gas tank. After discovering the shipments, each driver was arrested, charged with narcotics trafficking, and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents for further processing. Each arrested individual was transported to the Metropolitan Correctional Center while awaiting arraignment.

The agency also said all vehicles were seized due to their involvement in narcotics trafficking.

“CBP has many responsibilities protecting America’s borders and combating drug trafficking is one of them,” CBP San Diego Director of Field Operations Pete Flores said. “These seizures showcase our commitment to the security of the nation and zero tolerance for the smuggling of narcotics.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of the nation’s borders at and between the official ports of entry.