U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have seized nearly 400 pounds of methamphetamine in two separate busts at the Andrade Port of Entry, one of California’s smallest border crossings. The discoveries underscore the critical role even remote checkpoints play in national security and drug interdiction efforts.
Major Meth Seizures at a Small Port
The seizures occurred over a four-day span in late September at the Andrade Port of Entry, located about 130 miles east of San Diego, near the California–Arizona border. Despite its modest size, Andrade has increasingly become a target for traffickers hoping to evade detection, officials said.
The first seizure happened on September 26, when CBP officers noticed irregularities in a vehicle during a routine inspection. A canine detection team alerted officers to the presence of drugs, leading to the discovery of 219 packages of methamphetamine hidden inside the gas tank, rear seats, and spare tire.
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Weight: 239 pounds
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Estimated value: $482,500
Just three days later, on September 29, officers stopped another vehicle attempting to enter the U.S. through the same port. Upon inspection, they found 189 packages of meth concealed in the rear doors, quarter panels, and roof.
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Weight: 147 pounds
In total, CBP officers seized 386 pounds of methamphetamine, valued at more than $750,000 — enough, officials say, to cause “significant harm” had it reached U.S. communities.
Officials Praise Officers’ Vigilance
Calexico Port Director Roque Caza commended the officers’ professionalism and the vital contribution of smaller border stations like Andrade.
“The Andrade Port of Entry exemplifies the vital role every crossing plays in ensuring the safety and security of our nation,” Caza said. “Through steadfast enforcement efforts, we protect our communities and uphold the integrity of our borders.”
Caza also highlighted the critical role of canine units, calling them “a cornerstone of CBP’s enforcement operations.”
Andrade’s Strategic Role in Drug Interdiction
While Andrade processes far less traffic than major crossings like San Ysidro or Otay Mesa, officials say its size makes it a prime target for smugglers who mistakenly believe it offers a lower chance of detection. CBP has responded with enhanced technology, intelligence sharing, and canine screening to close that gap.
Nationwide, methamphetamine remains one of the most frequently seized narcotics. In fiscal year 2024, CBP intercepted over 175,000 pounds of meth across U.S.–Mexico borders — a record figure that reflects both the scale of trafficking networks and the agency’s growing enforcement success.
Investigation Continues
Both cases remain under active federal investigation. Authorities have not released the identities of the drivers or confirmed whether the two incidents are linked to a larger cartel operation.
Officials encourage the public to report any suspicious cross-border activity through CBP’s “Report Tips / Illegal Activity” portal.
“Community vigilance is a force multiplier in the fight against organized drug trafficking,” the agency said.
The twin methamphetamine seizures at Andrade highlight the persistent threat of narcotics smuggling and the crucial role of frontline officers. Through the combination of cutting-edge detection tools and trained canine teams, CBP continues to disrupt dangerous drug networks before they can reach American streets.
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