U.S. Border Patrol agents from the San Diego Sector intercepted a major drug trafficking attempt, seizing over 90,000 Xanax pills during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 near Camp Pendleton on April 16, 2025, at approximately 4:50 p.m. The incident resulted in the arrest of a driver who now faces state charges for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
K-9 alert leads to Farmapram discovery
Agents assigned to the San Clemente Station stopped a black pickup truck traveling northbound. During a routine interview, agents requested support from a K-9 unit. The K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics, prompting a vehicle search.
Inside, agents found 11 boxes containing individually packaged Farmapram, a Mexican equivalent of Xanax, a Schedule IV narcotic used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. When abused recreationally, Xanax can pose serious health risks.
Drugs valued at over $600,000
The driver, vehicle, and seized narcotics were transported to the Border Patrol station for further investigation. The boxes contained a total of 90,090 pills, with an estimated street value exceeding $600,000.
The case was handed over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for prosecution. The driver remains in custody.
Border Patrol: “We will not tolerate dangerous drugs”
“This seizure sends a clear message: we will not tolerate dangerous drugs on our streets,” said Jeffrey Stalnaker, Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the San Diego Sector. “Our agents work around the clock to shut down drug trafficking operations and to protect lives. This is a significant win, but our work continues.”
