U.S. Border Patrol agents from the San Diego Sector intercepted a major cocaine smuggling attempt on June 4, discovering 104 pounds of cocaine hidden inside a motorized roof compartment of a silver SUV during a vehicle stop at the I-15 North immigration checkpoint in Temecula.
Cocaine Concealed in Aftermarket Roof Compartment
At approximately 1:50 p.m., agents from the Newton-Azrak Station initiated the stop and conducted a routine interview. A Border Patrol K-9 unit alerted officers to the possible presence of narcotics. Upon further inspection, agents uncovered 40 bundles of cocaine concealed in an aftermarket roof compartment that had been motorized to appear standard.
Estimated Street Value Exceeds $700,000
The narcotics were transported to the Newton-Azrak Station for testing and weighing, confirming 104 pounds of cocaine with a street value of $708,000. The driver, a U.S. citizen, was taken into custody by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
The case has been referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California, where the suspect faces federal charges under 21 USC 844 (possession of a controlled substance) and 21 USC 841 (possession with intent to distribute).
Border Patrol Leadership Commends Agent Diligence
“Drug smugglers are often resourceful, but our dedicated agents are always watching,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey D. Stalnaker. “Our agents are the best of the best, and we remain resolute in our mission to keep communities safe.”
San Diego Sector Drug Seizure Totals This Year
So far this fiscal year, San Diego Sector agents have seized:
- 2,356 pounds of methamphetamine
- 2,587 pounds of cocaine
- 250 pounds of fentanyl
- 56 pounds of heroin
The agency continues its efforts to detect and prevent smuggling attempts that threaten community safety and national security.
For additional information, contact [email protected] or visit www.cbp.gov.
