Agents Seize Large Package of Methamphetamine Hidden Inside Vehicle

Author: Daniel Webster

SALTON CITY, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a woman attempting to smuggle methamphetamine through an immigration checkpoint Friday morning.

The incident occurred at about 10:50 a.m., when a gray 2008 Santa Fe approached the Highway 86 immigration checkpoint. A Border Patrol K-9 alerted to the rear of the vehicle during primary inspection. Agents referred the vehicle to secondary inspection area for further investigation.

During secondary inspection, agents discovered a large bundle wrapped in aluminum tape hidden underneath a factory panel in the rear cargo area of the vehicle. Further investigation of the bundle's contents revealed a white crystal-like substance that tested positive for the characteristics of methamphetamine. Agents arrested the driver and held her for further processing.

The total weight of the methamphetamine was approximately 63.8 pounds with an estimated value of $175,450.

El Centro Sector turned over the driver, a 26-year-old woman, United States citizen, the vehicle, and the narcotics to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.