CAMPO, Calif.—U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a man this week who had packages of methamphetamine concealed inside his vehicle’s gas tank on Wednesday.
On May 9, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the checkpoint on westbound Interstate 8 observed a 2002 Nissan Altima approach the primary inspection area. During initial questioning, a Border Patrol K-9 performed a sniff of the vehicle, resulting in an alert.
58.60 pounds and has an estimated
street value of $134,780.
The agent then sent the male driver to secondary inspection for further questioning.
While in secondary, a K-9 performed another sniff of the vehicle, resulting in an alert near the gas tank. Agents searched and discovered cellophane packages floating inside the tank. After dismantling the tank, agents recovered 53 suspicious packages. The packages contained 58.60 pounds of methamphetamine valued at $134,780.
The driver, a 47-year-old U.S. citizen, was placed under arrest. The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
As of May 7, 2019, the San Diego Sector has seized approximately 2,017 pounds of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $4,639,100.
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 our Nation’s borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.