SAN CLEMENTE, CALIF.—U.S. Border Patrol agents thwarted a methamphetamine smuggling attempt at the San Clemente, Calif. checkpoint early Sunday morning.
At approximately 8 a.m., agents encountered a 38-year-old male Mexican national driving a 2001 Honda Accord as it arrived at the checkpoint. The driver displayed suspicious behaviors and was referred for secondary inspection. A cursory inspection by a detector dog resulted in an alert to the two rear side-panels of the vehicle.
Agents searched and discovered a dozen bundles of meth in the rear side panels; six behind the left trim panel and six behind the right trim panel. The 12 bundles weighed 32.41 pounds and had an estimated street value of $648,200.
The suspected smuggler, drugs, and vehicle were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation.
To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our nation's borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.