EL PASO, Texas – Wednesday evening, U.S. Border Patrol Agents made a narcotic seizure at an immigration checkpoint.
Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Ysleta Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. Highway 62/180, encountered three passengers in a silver Nissan Versa approaching the primary inspection area.
While conducting an immigration inspection, the agent’s canine alerted to the possible presence of narcotics in the vehicle. The driver was directed into the secondary inspection area for further examination. During the inspection, agents discovered a bundle of possible narcotics concealed in the wheel well of the vehicle.
The narcotics tested positive for methamphetamine and with an approximate value of nearly $42,000.
The driver, 42-year-old female U.S. citizen and her two passengers were all placed under arrest. The Drug Enforcement Administration accepted the case and all three subjects are being held pending criminal prosecution.
“Seizures such as this one by our checkpoint agents, remind us of the critical role that the checkpoint and our specialty units, like the canines, play in our daily operations,” stated El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “Preventing these types of dangerous drugs from entering the country and making their way into our neighborhoods and communities, is of vital importance.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol while remaining anonymous by calling 1-800-635-2509.
It is important to note that an arrest or criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered evidence of guilt. Subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @USBPChiefEPT and @CBPWestTexas.