Dangerous Drugs Seized by Border Patrol

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. — U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a woman on Thursday afternoon who was transporting more than 21 pounds of heroin and cocaine in her vehicle.

At approximately 12 p.m., agents pulled over a driver traveling northbound on Interstate 5 near Camp Pendleton.

While agents questioned the driver, a K9 alerted to the trunk of the vehicle, a silver Mercedes C300.  Inside the vehicle’s trunk, agents discovered nine wrapped packages consistent with the characteristics of narcotics smuggling.

The nine packages weighed more than 21 pounds and contained 11.5 pounds of heroin and 9.8 pounds of cocaine.  The narcotics have an estimated street value of $250,425.

The 22-year-old female U.S. citizen, along with the heroin and cocaine, were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation.  The Mercedes was seized by Border Patrol.

"These drugs could have made their way into any American community," said Chief Patrol Agent Aaron M. Heitke.  "Thankfully, the vigilance of our agents prevented that from occurring."

Since October 1, 2020, San Diego Sector has seized more than 737 pounds of cocaine, 1,037 pounds of methamphetamine, 70 pounds of heroin, and 259 pounds of fentanyl.

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.