U.S. Border Patrol intercepts shipment of cocaine and methamphetamine on Interstate 15

Seizures have combined street value of $642,280

TEMECULA, Calif. - U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the San Diego Sector's Newton-Azrak Border Patrol Station seized more than 34 pounds of cocaine and methamphetamine Oct. 21 during a vehicle stop on northbound Interstate 15.

During an interview, agents identified inconsistencies in the driver's travel account. After obtaining consent to search the vehicle, agents discovered multiple packages containing suspected narcotics inside a hidden compartment.

Further inspection and testing confirmed the packages contained 14 bundles of cocaine weighing approximately 33.4 pounds, with an estimated street value of $641,280, and one bundle of methamphetamine weighing approximately 1.02 pounds, with an estimated street value of $1,000.

"Criminal organizations should understand that our layered approach to border security means there is no winning for them; they will not escape enforcement," said San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Justin De La Torre. "Whether smugglers operate at the border or attempt to move their illicit cargo hundreds of miles into the interior, our agents remain vigilant and ready to act. We will pursue these threats wherever we encounter them, disrupt their operations, and ensure those responsible face consequences. There is no place in our communities where smugglers and transnational criminal organizations should expect to operate with impunity."

Agents transported the driver, vehicle and narcotics to the Newton-Azrak Border Patrol Station for further investigation and processing and seized the vehicle.

The seizure underscores the San Diego Sector's commitment to disrupting narcotics trafficking operations, protecting American communities and preventing criminal organizations from exploiting transportation corridors throughout Southern California.

To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from the nation's borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact the San Diego Sector at 619-498-9900.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 70,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air and on the seas. We enforce safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration and trust.

• Topics
• Drug Trafficking
• Smuggling
• U.S. Border Patrol