On September 10, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized over $1.2 million worth of cocaine hidden in a semi truck at the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility in California.
Details: The truck entered the facility around 12:40 p.m. A canine unit alerted officers to the vehicle, prompting a secondary inspection.
- Officers used non-intrusive inspection technology, finding 65 packages of cocaine concealed in the fifth wheel area of the truck.
- The total weight of the cocaine was 167.11 pounds, estimated to be worth $1,270,000.
CBP officers seized both the cocaine and the truck. The driver was handed over to Homeland Security Investigations.
What they're saying: "This significant interdiction underscores the relentless efforts and vigilance of our officers in protecting our communities from the scourge of illegal narcotics," stated Rosa E. Hernandez, Port Director for the Area Port of Otay Mesa.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges border officers face in combating drug smuggling, reported CBP News.
Thankfully, no one was injured in the incident.