$1.2 million in cocaine ‘cleverly concealed’ in commercial vehicle’s ‘fifth wheel area’

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized over a million dollars’ worth of cocaine from a commercial vehicle at a California border crossing.

At 12:40 p.m. on September 10, a 34 year old truck driver entered the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility, located in Otay Mesa, California, driving a semi truck hauling an empty flatbed trailer.

A canine unit alerted to the vehicle, which was referred for a secondary inspection.

When CBP officers utilized non-intrusive inspection technology, they discovered anomalies.

“Upon inspecting the fifth wheel area of the tractor-trailer, CBP officers discovered and extracted 65 packages. The contents of the packages were tested and identified as cocaine, weighing a total of 167.11 pounds with an estimated street value of $1,270,000,” CBP said.

The cocaine and the tractor trailer were seized by CBP. The truck driver was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations.

“Today, CBP officers showcased their unwavering commitment to securing our borders by seizing 167 pounds of cocaine ingeniously concealed within the fifth wheel area of a flatbed truck,” stated Rosa E. Hernandez, Port Director for the Area Port of Otay Mesa. “This significant interdiction underscores the relentless efforts and vigilance of our officers in protecting our communities from the scourge of illegal narcotics. Our dedication to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of the American public remains steadfast.”