CBP officers seize over 900 pounds of liquid methamphetamine in tractor-trailer fuel tank

SAN DIEGO — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Otay Mesa Cargo Facility seized over 900 pounds of liquid methamphetamine concealed in the fuel tank of a tractor-trailer. The seizure occurred March 2, when CBP officers encountered a 26-year-old male citizen of Mexico driving a tractor pulling a trailer, seeking entry into the United States from Mexico. After initial inspection, CBP officers referred the driver and vehicle for further examination. In the secondary inspection area, CBP officers utilized nonintrusive inspection technology to screen the vehicle and referred it for a more in-depth inspection. During the inspection, CBP officers opened the fuel tank of the tractor-trailer and inserted a probe, revealing an unknown gel-like substance mixed within the diesel. CBP officers extracted a total of 29 five-gallon buckets of the liquid substance from the fuel tank. A CBP officer conducted a field test on the liquid, which tested positive for methamphetamine with a total weight of 944 pounds. “Thanks to the vigilance and expertise of our officers, we successfully intercepted 944 pounds of liquid methamphetamine concealed within the fuel tank of a tractor-trailer,” Otay Mesa Port Director Rosa Hernandez stated. “This significant seizure demonstrates our ongoing commitment to protecting our borders and preventing dangerous narcotics from reaching our communities.” The subject was turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation. CBP seized the narcotics and tractor-trailer. CBP continues to enhance its enforcement strategies, utilizing advanced screening technology, K-9 teams, and officer expertise to counter evolving smuggling tactics. We remain steadfast in our mission to disrupt drug trafficking organizations and ensure the safety of the American public.