Drug trafficking continues to be a major problem at the U.S.-Mexico Border.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection found more than 400 lbs of cocaine hidden in the fuel tanks of an automobile on Friday, according to reports. CBP reported that the discovery occurred at the Otay Mea Commercial Facility while a commercial tractor-trailer attempted to enter the United States.
During an inspection, a canine component conducted a sniff of the vehicle. When the dog reached the fuel tanks, it signaled CBP officers that they should investigate the area. During the investigation, the officers observed the illegal substances. CBP officials revealed in a press statement that the cocaine had been hidden within a “non-factory compartment” of both fuel containers on the semi-truck. In the covert section, 160 packages totaling 412.26 lbs of cocaine were hidden.
CBP reports that the 35-year-old driver of the truck had a valid card for border crossing. The identity of this individual is unknown. CBP officers “referred him for further examination, along with tractor and empty trailer.” The CBP then transferred him to Homeland Security Investigations, for further investigation.
Rosa E. Hernandez stated that the success of OFO’s canine teams is a result of collaboration. We will continue to conduct operations such as Operation Apollo and use intelligence and investigative data to target the supply chain of drug traffickers.
Operation Apollo is the CBP initiative responsible for the seizure and discovery of the drugs. The Biden government’s program is focused on intelligence collection and partnerships, and leverages local CBP assets as well as federal and state partners.
The program’s primary goal was to combat the fentanyl epidemic that was affecting our nation. A press release from Customs and Border Protection stated that the program was launched in California in October of 2023. It was then extended to Arizona in April 2024.
In October 2023 Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced that the Department of Homeland Security was fighting the scourge of illicit synthetic narcotics and fentanyl with all the resources at its disposal. “We intercepted more illicit synthetic narcotics in the last two years than we did in the five previous years combined.” We will continue to enhance our intelligence and field operation to stop these deadly substances from reaching our streets.
Mayorkas said, “We are also implementing measures that will combat criminal cartels and organizations.” This strategy is based upon the extraordinary talent of a workforce who are fervently dedicated to safeguarding the American public, and CBP has a crucial role in collaboration with federal, state, or local partners.” “The scope of the fentanyl problem our country faces highlights the need for Congress provide CBP with additional resources, equipment and personnel to continue this vital work, as detailed in the Administration’s Supplemental Budget Request.”
