Border patrol officers at San Ysidro Port of Entry seized over a ton of narcotics in a month-long operation, leaving us to wonder how this story of perseverance ends.
At a Glance
- CBP officers seized over one ton of narcotics in July at San Ysidro Port of Entry.
- Total narcotics seized: 2,627.80 pounds in 50 incidents.
- Breakdown: 173.91 pounds of fentanyl, 18.24 pounds of heroin, 169.5 pounds of cocaine, and 2,266.15 pounds of methamphetamine.
- Narcotics were concealed in vehicles crossing from Mexico.
- Suspects were handed over to Homeland Security Investigations.
Record Seizure at San Ysidro
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the San Ysidro Port of Entry managed to seize over a ton of narcotics throughout July. This major drug bust involved more than 2,627.80 pounds of illegal substances in 50 different incidents. This seizure highlights the ongoing battle against drug smuggling at the U.S.-Mexico border. The successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of CBP’s current security measures.
The breakdown of the seized drugs is staggering: 173.91 pounds of fentanyl, 18.24 pounds of heroin, 169.5 pounds of cocaine, and 2,266.15 pounds of methamphetamine. These narcotics were smuggled through vehicles that crossed from Mexico, hidden cleverly to elude detection. Despite these efforts, CBP’s vigilance and resources ensured these dangerous substances did not reach American streets.
Border patrol seized over a ton of narcotics at one entry port in one month https://t.co/4W5JqvgR3v
— Just the News (@JustTheNews) August 29, 2024
Persistent Efforts and Major Operations
All seized narcotics and vehicles were taken by CBP officers, and the suspects involved were handed over to Homeland Security Investigations for further analysis. This successful operation is part of a broader initiative known as Operation Apollo, which started on October 26, 2023. This initiative later expanded to Arizona on April 10, 2024, focusing on intelligence collection and collaborative efforts among various federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners.
“CBP Officers will continue to use their skillsets and knowhow to intercept illegal and illicit narcotics that are encountered at the Port of Entry,” said Mariza Marin, Port Director for the San Ysidro Port of Entry. “Our staff is fully invested in safeguarding the American people from these harmful substances and demonstrate the highest levels of service to our nation through their extraordinary efforts each and every day.”
A noteworthy seizure earlier in the month involved a truck in San Diego carrying over $5 million worth of methamphetamine disguised as watermelons. In another instance, more than 600 pounds of methamphetamine were found hidden inside a shipment of celery. These methods show the lengths to which smugglers go to sneak narcotics into the United States.
CBP’s Role and Mission
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the largest law enforcement organization in the United States, boasting over 65,000 dedicated personnel. Their mission encompasses protecting America’s borders, facilitating lawful travel and trade, and enhancing national security through innovative measures, intelligence, and collaboration. The successful seizure at the San Ysidro Port of Entry underscores CBP’s commitment to safeguarding communities across the nation.
“Suspects involved in these incidents have been turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation,” according to the release.
CBP officers remain on high alert, showcasing their expertise and dedication in intercepting and dismantling drug smuggling operations. This continuous effort is vital in the ongoing war against drug trafficking, ensuring that American communities are kept safe from the scourge of illegal drugs.
