Andrade, CA – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized nearly 400 pounds of methamphetamine in two separate incidents at the Andrade Port of Entry, underscoring how even the smallest border crossings can play a vital role in national security and narcotics enforcement.
The Incident: Major Meth Seizures at a Small Port
The seizures took place over a four-day span in late September at the Andrade Port of Entry, located approximately 130 miles east of San Diego near the California–Arizona border. Despite being one of the smallest ports in the state, Andrade continues to experience significant drug trafficking attempts, according to CBP officials.
The first bust occurred on September 26, when officers conducting a routine inspection detected irregularities in a vehicle crossing the border. A canine enforcement officer and a narcotics detection dog were called to the scene, leading to the discovery of 219 packages of methamphetamine hidden throughout the vehicle — including in the gas tank, rear seats, and spare tire.
Authorities reported that the total weight of the first seizure was 239 pounds, with an estimated street value of $482,500.
Investigation and Evidence: Second Discovery Three Days Later
Just three days after the first seizure, CBP officers stopped another vehicle attempting to enter the U.S. through the same port. During a similar inspection, officers uncovered 189 packages of meth concealed within the rear doors, quarter panels, and roof of the vehicle. This second haul weighed 147 pounds, according to the CBP press release.
Combined, the two seizures amounted to 386 pounds of methamphetamine, with a street value exceeding $750,000. Officials said the quantity of narcotics recovered was enough to cause “significant harm” had it reached American streets.
Statements and Reactions from Officials
Calexico Port Director Roque Caza praised the officers’ vigilance and professionalism, emphasizing the importance of smaller ports in preventing narcotics trafficking.
“The Andrade Port of Entry exemplifies the vital role every border 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 added that CBP’s success is built on a combination of advanced technology, officer expertise, and the exceptional skill of canine detection teams.
“Our canine teams are a critical part of our enforcement operations,” he noted. “Many large-scale drug seizures begin with a dog’s alert.”
Background Context: Andrade’s Strategic Role in Drug Interdiction
The Andrade Port of Entry handles a small portion of the traffic seen at larger border crossings like San Ysidro or Otay Mesa, but officials warn that this makes it an attractive target for smugglers. Drug traffickers often assume that smaller ports mean fewer inspections and lower detection risk, a miscalculation that CBP continues to counter with heightened vigilance and cross-border intelligence coordination.
CBP reports that across the U.S.–Mexico border, methamphetamine remains one of the most trafficked narcotics, with seizures increasing year over year. In fiscal year 2024, CBP intercepted over 175,000 pounds of meth nationwide, reflecting both the persistence of trafficking networks and the success of enforcement measures.
Ongoing Developments and Public Involvement
Both incidents are under active investigation, and CBP has not yet released details about the drivers or any potential connections between the two cases. Federal investigators are working to determine whether the seizures are part of a larger smuggling operation linked to cross-border cartels.
Officials urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity through CBP’s “Report Tips / Illegal Activity” portal, stressing that community awareness plays a critical role in combating organized drug trafficking.
Conclusion
The dual methamphetamine seizures at the Andrade Port of Entry highlight the continued threat of narcotics smuggling across all border checkpoints, regardless of size. Through strategic enforcement, advanced detection technology, and the efforts of dedicated officers, CBP continues to disrupt dangerous drug networks before they can harm American communities.
What are your thoughts on CBP’s latest drug seizure efforts? Share your opinions in the comments below.
