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Border Patrol Agents Discover Meth in Gas Tank

Release Date
Fri, 07/31/2020
Gas Tank 1
Border Patrol agents searched the rear area and
the gas tank of vehicle.  The search of the gas
tank revealed several packages hidden inside. 

SALTON CITY, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents working at the Highway 86 immigration checkpoint arrested a man suspected of smuggling narcotics Thursday afternoon.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:50 p.m., when a 25-year-old man driving a silver 2010 Chevrolet Malibu approached the checkpoint.  A Border Patrol K-9 detection team alerted to the vehicle in the primary inspection lane.  Agents directed the vehicle to enter the secondary inspection area for further investigation. 

Gas Tank 2
The total weight of the methamphetamine
discovered was approximately 37.67 pounds
with an estimated value of $87,758.

While in secondary inspection, Border Patrol agents searched the rear area and the gas tank of vehicle.  The search of the gas tank revealed several packages hidden inside.  Agents tested a white crystal like substance from inside the packages once they were removed from the gas tank.  The substance tested positive for the characteristics of methamphetamine.

The total weight of the methamphetamine discovered was approximately 37.67 pounds with an estimated value of $87,758.

The man, a United States citizen, the narcotics and vehicle were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. For all news, information and updates, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @USBPChiefELC.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021