U.S. Border Patrol agents from the San Diego Sector’s San Clemente Station seized more than 66 pounds of cocaine during a vehicle stop on Monday, May 19, continuing a string of successful narcotics interdictions in fiscal year 2025.
The stop occurred at 5:15 p.m. along the I-5 freeway near the Basilone Road exit, where agents pulled over a grey sedan. After speaking briefly with the driver, agents requested a K-9 unit, which signaled a positive alert for narcotics.
Packages Found Hidden in Trunk
Upon inspection, agents discovered two cardboard boxes in the vehicle’s trunk. The boxes contained 25 individually wrapped packages consistent with typical narcotics smuggling methods.
The driver, vehicle, and suspected narcotics were transported to a nearby Border Patrol station for further investigation. Field tests confirmed the contents as cocaine, with a total weight of 66.14 pounds and an estimated street value of $451,500.
The suspect and narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the case has been referred for federal prosecution. The vehicle was also seized by Border Patrol.
Part of a Larger Trend in 2025 Seizures
“This seizure is yet another great example of the unwavering commitment and vigilance of our Border Patrol agents,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Stalnaker of the San Diego Sector. “These successes are a result of dedicated teamwork; every load we interdict represents saved lives and safer communities.”
So far in fiscal year 2025, the San Diego Sector has reported the following drug seizures:
- 2,586 pounds of cocaine
- 2,538 pounds of methamphetamine
- 781 pounds of fentanyl
- 56 pounds of heroin
The recent seizure highlights the San Diego Sector’s ongoing commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks and ensuring public safety along California’s border corridors.
