YUMA, Ariz. – Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents from the Wellton Station arrested a United States citizen at the Interstate 8 immigration checkpoint after discovering methamphetamine hidden in a rental vehicle Saturday afternoon.
At approximately 2 p.m., Wellton Station agents referred the driver of a Chevy Malibu to the secondary inspection area after a canine alerted to the vehicle. While in secondary, agents discovered approximately 17 packages of a substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. The packages had a combined weight of over 16 pounds, which has an estimated street value of nearly $41,000. Agents also discovered a handgun in the driver’s possession.
Agents arrested the 25-year-old male driver, from Yuma, and seized the drugs, weapon and vehicle.
This was the third significant narcotics/weapons seizure in a week from the Interstate 8 immigration checkpoint.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Individuals can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. Reporting illicit activity could result in saving someone’s life.