K-9 Team at Border Stops SUV Loaded with Lethal Fentanyl Pills at Otay Mesa Crossing; One in Custody

Border officers discovered a stash of fentanyl pills in an SUV entering San Diego from Tijuana, thanks to a drug-sniffing dog on Nov. 24.

A K-9 unit was patrolling the lanes approaching the inspection booths at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry when the dog signaled officers about an SUV being driven by a 31-year-old man, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The SUV has been directed for additional inspection, with an X-ray uncovering irregularities in the vehicle.

Authorities discovered 30 packages containing 215 pounds of fentanyl hidden in various parts of the vehicle, according to CBP.

“Fentanyl is a highly lethal drug that continues to plague our southern border,” said Rosa Hernandez, port director for the Otay Mesa Port of Entry. “I’m incredibly proud of our officers who courageously confront this threat and seize these lethal drugs on a daily basis.”

Authorities confiscated the narcotics and the vehicle, subsequently handing the individual over to Homeland Security Investigations for additional inquiry.

Reference