In August 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers from the San Diego Field Office successfully intercepted 10,827 pounds of narcotics in 108 separate incidents, with an estimated street value of over $21 million. The seizures included 9,525 pounds of methamphetamine, 968 pounds of cocaine, 298 pounds of fentanyl, and 36 pounds of heroin. All suspects involved in the smuggling attempts were arrested and handed over to Homeland Security Investigations for further action, while the narcotics and vehicles used in the operations were confiscated.
The San Diego Field Office, which oversees key Southern California ports of entry including San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, Tecate, and others, played a critical role in these seizures. CBP officers credited their success to the multi-faceted approach of utilizing advanced technology and strengthening partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
“These numbers highlight our efforts in employing a multi-faceted approach to dismantle transnational criminal organizations,” said Sidney K. Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations for San Diego. The operation is part of “Operation Apollo,” a broader initiative launched in October 2023 to combat fentanyl trafficking, which has since expanded to Arizona. Through collaboration and intelligence gathering, the initiative aims to disrupt the smuggling of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into the United States.–News Desk