CBP officers seize over 100 pounds of fentanyl

CALEXICO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers found 98 packages of drugs hidden within a vehicle Wednesday at the Calexico West Port of Entry.

The drug bust occurred around 10:06 p.m. during the inspection of a gray sedan, border officials said in a news release.

The driver of the vehicle, a 47-year-old man, was attempting to enter the United States from Mexico when authorities found packages within the vehicle’s quarter panel.

CBP officers then conducted a secondary inspection which resulted in the discovery of 98 packages of fentanyl, weighing around 122 pounds, concealed within the vehicle’s quarter panels and back headrest.

“This fentanyl pill seizure is a big win in our fight against the opioid crisis,” said Roque Caza, Area Port Director of Calexico. “Every pill off the streets is a life potentially saved. I commend our hardworking CBP officers and law enforcement partners for keeping our communities safe.”

The driver was turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation, while the drugs and vehicle were seized by CBP officers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.