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Border Patrol Agents Thwart Meth Smuggling Attempt

Release Date
Wed, 09/23/2020

SALTON CITY, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents thwarted a narcotics smuggling attempt on Tuesday.

Oil pan meth
El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents
found 8.5 pounds of methamphetamine
hidden in the oil pan of a car Tuesday.

The incident occurred at approximately 1 p.m., when a man driving a black Buick Lucerne approached the Highway 86 checkpoint. Agents directed the vehicle to enter the secondary inspection area for further investigation. 

While in secondary inspection, a Border Patrol K-9 detection team alerted to the vehicle. After further inspection agents discovered a large bundle wrapped in foil inside the oil pan of the vehicle. The white crystal-like substance inside the packages tested positive for the characteristics of methamphetamine when tested with a narcotics test kit. Agents arrested the man and took him to the detention area for further processing.

The total weight of the methamphetamine was approximately 8.5 pounds with an estimated value of $19,125. 

El Centro Sector turned over the 26-year-old United States citizen, the vehicle and the narcotics to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. For all news, information and updates, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @USBPChiefELC.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021