U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers uncovered nearly 94 pounds of methamphetamine worth an estimated $150,240 hidden inside a passenger vehicle attempting to enter the United States through the San Ysidro Port of Entry, highlighting the agency’s continued efforts to disrupt drug smuggling along the southern border.
The seizure took place on July 5, when a 20-year-old U.S. citizen arrived at the border driving a 2014 Nissan Versa. During the initial inspection, officers identified irregularities that prompted them to refer the vehicle for a more detailed examination.
Multiple inspection tools uncovered the hidden narcotics
The secondary inspection combined several layers of screening. A density meter first detected unusually high readings inside the vehicle’s doors, prompting officers to conduct additional checks.
A CBP detection dog alerted to the possible presence of narcotics, while non-intrusive imaging equipment revealed anomalies within the car’s structure. Officers then performed a physical search and recovered 71 packages of methamphetamine concealed inside the doors and rear side panels.
The seized drugs weighed approximately 93.9 pounds (42.6 kilograms) and have an estimated street value of $150,240.
Driver arrested after seizure
CBP officers also seized the Nissan Versa, two cell phones and a GPS tracking device believed to be associated with the smuggling attempt.
The driver was arrested at the scene and turned over to federal authorities, where they face charges related to the alleged importation of narcotics into the United States.
Mariza Marín, director of the San Ysidro Port of Entry, said the seizure demonstrated the effectiveness of the agency’s layered inspection process.
“This was not a lucky break, it was the result of diligent, layered enforcement. From the initial observations at primary inspection to the use of our canine teams and advanced technology, our officers demonstrated the expertise and thoroughness required every day to prevent dangerous drugs from entering our country,” Marín said.
CBP continues anti-smuggling efforts along the Southwest border
CBP said the case reflects its ongoing strategy of combining trained personnel, canine teams and advanced screening technology to detect hidden contraband while facilitating legitimate cross-border travel and trade. As of March 31, 2026, the agency had seized more than 83,854 pounds of cocaine along the Southwest border.
