hidden inside the vehicle’s heater-core
assembly.
U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents seized fentanyl during a traffic stop earlier this week.
The incident occurred on Tuesday at approximately 3:20 p.m., when agents patrolling on Interstate 15 south near Hwy. 76 initiated a vehicle stop on a 2018 Audi sedan. Driving the vehicle was a 20-year-old U.S. citizen man. A K-9 team conducted an inspection around the exterior of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert.
Searching further, agents discovered a cellophane wrapped package in the vehicle’s dashboard assembly. Inside was 2.53 pounds of fentanyl with an estimated street value of $37,375.
The man and the narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration and he now faces federal prosecution. USBP agents seized the Audi.
“Thanks to the professionalism and dedication of our agents on the frontline, these dangerous drugs will not reach any community in our country,” said Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke.
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.