A Tijuana native woman discovered a tracking device attached to her car while preparing to cross into the United States at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, prompting a rapid response from municipal police.
The driver voluntarily requested a preventive vehicle inspection after expressing concern that her maroon van may have been tampered with. She feared hidden people, illicit substances, or other foreign objects could have been placed inside.
Officers conducting routine patrols in the Ready Lane area responded to the call. During an initial visual inspection, they located a magnetic GPS tracker attached to the chassis of the vehicle, a device the driver confirmed did not belong to her.
Related: Border Crackdown Nets Multiple Arrests, Including Woman Accused of Smuggling Cocaine and Fentanyl
Following the discovery, a more thorough search was conducted. A canine unit was brought to the scene but detected no narcotics or further evidence of criminal activity. The incident concluded without arrest, and the GPS device was removed.
Authorities are now urging drivers to remain vigilant. Tijuana’s Department of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPCM) has issued preventive recommendations to avoid becoming an unwilling “blind mule” for criminal activity. Suggestions include:
- Regularly inspecting the exterior of your vehicle, especially after parking in public.
- Checking the chassis, bumpers, and body for suspicious attached objects.
- Avoiding direct contact with any unfamiliar device and contacting police immediately.
- Requesting a preventive vehicle inspection from authorities before crossing the border if concerned.
- Reporting any suspicious activity.
You might be interested it: Permanent Resident Charged With Smuggling Migrants at San Ysidro
