U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized more than a ton of illegal drugs concealed within a semi trailer at a California border crossing.
The drug seizure took place on October 3, 2024, at the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility located in Otay Mesa, California.
A 40 year old male driving an empty tractor trailer approached the facility seeking entry to the U.S. from Mexico.
The vehicle was referred for a secondary inspection.
After CBP officers used non-intrusive screening technology to examine the vehicle, they discovered “anomalies within the floor-frame of the tractor trailer.”
A canine unit alerted to the presence of drugs.
CBP brought in “heavy equipment” to further inspect the trailer and uncovered 265 packages hidden within the floor frame.
Testing confirmed that the packages contained approximately 2,686 pounds of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $3,220,000.
The drugs and tractor trailer were seized by CBP.
The truck driver was handed over to Homeland Security Investigations.
“I am extremely proud of our dedicated workforce,” stated Rosa E. Hernandez, Port Director for the Area Port of Otay Mesa. “Our officers are always vigilant and work hard to ensure our border security is not compromised and to protect our communities from dangerous drugs.”