By Trend News Line 2024-05-24 13:57:00.
Massive Drug Bust at Otay Mesa Commercial Facility
A staggering $18 million worth of methamphetamine was unearthed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility. The illicit drugs were cleverly concealed within a shipment of squash, a shocking discovery that highlights the constant battle against drug smuggling at the border.
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Discovery of the Narcotics
The dramatic events unfolded on a Monday morning at around 6:47 a.m. when CBP officers encountered a 44-year-old male driver operating a commercial tractor-trailer carrying a load of squash. Despite having a valid border crossing card, the driver was singled out for further inspection by vigilant CBP officers. The tractor-trailer and its cargo were subjected to a thorough examination in secondary inspection.
Use of Advanced Technology
In a bid to uncover any hidden contraband, non-intrusive scanning technology was deployed to scan the tractor-trailer. Upon close inspection, anomalies were detected, prompting CBP officers to call in a human and narcotics detection canine team. The highly-trained canine quickly alerted officers to the presence of narcotics within the shipment.
Seizure of Methamphetamine
A total of 1,419 packages containing methamphetamine were meticulously extracted from the shipment of squash. The sheer quantity of the illegal substance was staggering, with a total weight of 11,469 pounds and an estimated street value of $18,350,400. The successful bust was a testament to the dedication and expertise of CBP officers in intercepting dangerous narcotics before they could reach the streets.
Commendation for CBP Officers
Rosa E. Hernandez, the Otay Mesa Area Port Director, lauded the efforts of the CBP officers involved in the operation. She praised their unwavering commitment to duty, excellence, and the safety of the nation. The seizure of the massive quantity of methamphetamine showcased the effectiveness of CBP’s ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling at the border.
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Operation Apollo
The seizure of the illicit drugs was part of Operation Apollo, a comprehensive counter-fentanyl initiative that kicked off in southern California on October 26, 2023, and later expanded to Arizona on April 10, 2024. Operation Apollo focuses on intelligence gathering and collaboration with various law enforcement agencies to target the smuggling of fentanyl and other dangerous substances into the United States.
The driver of the tractor-trailer was promptly handed over to Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) for further investigation, while the seized narcotics, along with the commercial vehicle, were confiscated by CBP officers. The successful interception of the massive drug shipment serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the dedication of law enforcement agencies to keep dangerous substances off the streets..
– CBP officers intercepting meth smuggling attempt
– CBP officers thwarting narcotic smuggling effort.
