CBP Seizes Nearly 186 Pounds of Cocaine at Calexico Cargo Facility
CALEXICO, Calif. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Calexico East Port of Entry Commercial Facility thwarted a major narcotics smuggling attempt on Sept. 17, 2025, seizing nearly 186 pounds of cocaine concealed in a car hauler trailer.
The seizure occurred during a routine inspection when a tractor-trailer, pulling a car hauler, entered the facility. The male driver told officers he was traveling to Pomona, California, to collect vehicles for transport to Mexicali, Mexico. Based on initial observations, CBP referred the vehicle for a more detailed inspection.
Officers employed nonintrusive X-ray scanning, which revealed anomalies inside the car hauler. Secondary officers conducted a physical inspection, supported by advanced imaging technology and a positive K9 alert. The search uncovered 70 packages containing a white powdery substance, later confirmed as cocaine through field testing.
Following the discovery, CBP officers contacted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, whose Special Agents responded to continue the investigation. The case has been accepted for federal prosecution, and the driver was taken into custody. His visa has been canceled, and he now faces federal drug smuggling charges.
“This seizure highlights the dedication and vigilance of CBP officers in protecting our nation’s borders and preventing dangerous drugs from entering our communities,” said Calexico Port of Entry Director Roque Caza. “Our officers work tirelessly to disrupt criminal organizations and safeguard the public.”
CBP seized the cocaine along with the tractor and car hauler as evidence. The agency emphasized that it continues to leverage advanced technology, intelligence-driven operations, and interagency collaboration to combat transnational criminal organizations while facilitating lawful trade and travel.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the nation’s largest law enforcement organization and the world’s first unified border management agency, employing more than 65,000 personnel to protect the U.S. on land, in the air, and at sea.