Andrade, CA – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized nearly 400 pounds of methamphetamine in two separate incidents at the Andrade Port of Entry, underscoring how even the smallest border crossings can play a vital role in national security and narcotics enforcement.
The Incident: Major Meth Seizures at a Small Port
The seizures took place over a four-day span in late September at the Andrade Port of Entry, located approximately 130 miles east of San Diego near the California–Arizona border. Despite being one of the smallest ports in the state, Andrade continues to experience significant drug trafficking attempts, according to CBP officials.
The first bust occurred on September 26, when officers conducting a routine inspection detected irregularities in a vehicle crossing the border. A canine enforcement officer and a narcotics detection dog were called to the scene, leading to the discovery of 219 packages of methamphetamine hidden throughout the vehicle — including in the gas tank, rear seats, and spare tire.
Authorities reported that the total weight of the first seizure was 239 pounds, with an estimated street value of $482,500.
Investigation and Evidence: Second Discovery Three Days Later
Just three days after the first seizure, CBP officers stopped another vehicle attempting to enter the U.S. through the same port. During a similar inspection, officers uncovered 189 packages of meth concealed within the rear doors, quarter panels, and roof of the vehicle. This second haul weighed 147 pounds, according to the CBP press release…