CALEXICO: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Calexico West port of entry on Sunday arrested a woman after they said they discovering 50 pounds of methamphetamine concealed inside the fuel tank of her vehicle.
CBP said the incident happened Sunday at about 4:25 a.m. when CBP officers encountered a 31-year-old woman, a U.S. citizen, driving a 1999 Jeep Cherokee. Officers referred the vehicle and driver for a more in-depth examination. Officers conducted an intensive inspection using the port’s imaging system and a canine team to search the vehicle. During their inspection, officers found 40 wrapped packages of methamphetamine concealed inside the fuel tank. The weight of the narcotic was 50 pounds with a street value of approximately $70,000. “Drug organizations continue to utilize deep concealment methods, but thanks to technology, canines, and officer training, officers continue to discover and stop these dangerous drugs from entering the U.S.,” said Area Port Director David Salazar. The driver, a resident of Mexicali, Baja California, was arrested and turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigation agents for further processing. She was later transported to the Imperial County Jail where she currently awaits arraignment. CBP seized the narcotics and vehicle.
