Andrade is located roughly 130 miles east of San Diego, near California’s border with Arizona.
ANDRADE, Calif. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized nearly 400 pounds of methamphetamine in two separate incidents at the Andrade Port of Entry, one of the smallest border crossings along California’s border with Mexico.
The seizures, which occurred over a four-day period, underscore the critical role even the smallest ports play in national security, CBP officials said. Andrade is located roughly 130 miles east of San Diego, near California’s border with Arizona.
According to CBP, the first discovery came on Sept. 26 when officers — assisted by a canine enforcement officer and a narcotics detection dog — found 219 packages of methamphetamine hidden throughout a vehicle, including in the gas tank, rear seats, and spare tire. The drugs weighed more than 239 pounds and had an estimated street value of about $482,500.
Just three days later, on Sept. 29, officers uncovered another 189 packages of meth hidden inside a vehicle’s rear doors, quarter panels, and roof. The haul weighed approximately 147 pounds.
“The Andrade Port of Entry exemplifies the vital role every border crossing plays in ensuring the safety and security of our nation,” said Calexico Port Director Roque Caza. “Through steadfast enforcement efforts, we protect our communities and uphold the integrity of our borders.”
CBP said officers at the Andrade Port of Entry process fewer travelers than larger crossings but remain vigilant in their enforcement efforts. The agency encourages the public to report suspicious activity through its “Report Tips / Illegal Activity” portal to help dismantle narcotics operations and keep border communities safe.
