EL PASO — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Paso del Norte Port of Entry seized 57.9 pounds of suspected methamphetamine hidden inside a black SUV last month, according to the agency.
CBP said the seizure took place around 12:30 p.m. on June 18, when a U.S. citizen woman driving the SUV attempted to enter the United States from Mexico in the passenger vehicle lane. Officers referred the vehicle to secondary inspection during primary processing, where they discovered multiple bundles of methamphetamine concealed in non-factory compartments inside the SUV, according to the agency.
The agency estimated the street value of the seized narcotics at $521,100. Both the vehicle and the drugs were confiscated, and the driver was turned over to federal authorities, CBP said.
“CBP officers use their experience and advanced technology to stay one step ahead of smugglers,” CBP El Paso Director of Field Operations Ray Provencio said in a statement. “Their dedication and vigilance play a critical role in protecting our communities from the dangers of illicit drugs.”
CBP said the interception reflects the agency’s ongoing efforts to keep illegal drugs from crossing into the United States and to protect communities nationwide. The agency added that, fulfilling President Donald J. Trump’s mandate, the Department of Homeland Security and CBP, under the leadership of DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, have delivered what the agency described as the most secure border in history.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity at ports of entry can report it to CBP by calling 1-800-635-2509.
Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
