CBP Officers Intercept Record-Breaking 500 Pounds of Fentanyl at Southern Border
WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a major enforcement action, United States Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted over 500 pounds of fentanyl at a southern border port of entry, marking what officials are calling a record-breaking seizure of the deadly synthetic opioid.
WHAT: A single-day seizure of 500.4 pounds of fentanyl concealed within a commercial tractor-trailer.
WHO: The seizure was conducted by officers of the United States Customs and Border Protection, working in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations.
WHEN: The interdiction occurred on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, during a routine secondary inspection.
WHERE: The operation took place at the Otay Mesa commercial port of entry in San Diego, California.
WHY: According to a CBP official, the inspection was prompted by a canine alert for narcotics, leading to the discovery of the fentanyl concealed within the vehicle's structure. The agency stated the seizure prevents an estimated 113 million potentially lethal doses from reaching U.S. communities, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat the transnational trafficking of dangerous substances.