K-9 Alerts to Methamphetamine Hidden Inside Fuel Tank

CAMPO, Calif. — U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a man Thursday afternoon who had 72 packages of methamphetamine concealed inside his vehicle’s fuel tank.

On Thursday, May 30, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the checkpoint on westbound Interstate 8 observed a black 2007 Chevrolet Silverado approach the checkpoint.  During a pre-primary inspection, the on duty K-9 alerted to the vehicle.  Border Patrol agents questioned the driver regarding his citizenship, then sent him to secondary inspection for further questioning.

While in secondary, agents searched the vehicle and discovered 72 suspicious packages hidden inside the fuel tank.  The 72 packages contained 87.39 pounds of methamphetamine and is valued at $138,740.

The driver, a 26-year-old Mexican national with a permanent resident card, 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 October 1, 2018, the San Diego Sector has seized approximately 2,017 pounds of methamphetamine valued at $4,639,399.

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.