On Wednesday, April 15th, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced to The Epoch Times that its agents successfully prevented over 60 pounds of cocaine from entering the United States at the U.S.-Mexico border.
At the San Ysidro port of entry in California, a U.S. citizen classified as a “trusted traveler” was arrested on April 7th. He is facing federal charges for attempting to smuggle illegal drugs valued at over $1.1 million hidden in his vehicle. The 25-year-old man’s name has not been disclosed by the CBP.
This individual was classified as a “trusted traveler” due to his participation in the Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection program, which allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to expedite their entry into the U.S. Before being accepted into the program, all applicants undergo thorough background checks and interviews.
Despite having expedited clearance qualifications, the man was subjected to a secondary inspection upon entry. The CBP stated, “Trust but verify.”
During the secondary inspection, CBP agents used non-intrusive imaging technology and detected “anomalies” inside the man’s 2020 Honda Civic. At that time, a narcotics detection K-9 also responded. Law enforcement officers ultimately discovered 20 packages (totaling 60.14 pounds) of cocaine inside the car, and seized the vehicle along with two mobile phones. The man now faces drug smuggling charges.
Mariza Marin, the port director of San Ysidro, stated, “This arrest sends a clear message: no one is above the law. We will hold everyone accountable, especially those who attempt to exploit trusted traveler programs to smuggle drugs and betray trust.”
The arrest comes as the Trump administration has achieved “zero releases” at the southern border for 11 consecutive months, while CBP has seen an increase in the amount of illegal drugs seized nationwide compared to the same period last year.
In March, CBP seized over 65,000 pounds of drugs nationwide, including 613 pounds of fentanyl. This represented a 27% increase compared to March 2024.
The agency reported that as of March in the current fiscal year, drug seizures have increased by 24% compared to the same period in the 2024 fiscal year.
Data shows that in the current fiscal year up to now, CBP has confiscated 341,000 pounds of drugs, including cocaine, MDMA, fentanyl, heroin, ketamine, khat, LSD, marijuana, and methamphetamine. CBP has also compiled seizure data from the southern border, northern border, coastal areas, and inland regions.
In February of this year, CBP disclosed to The Epoch Times that they seized over 660 pounds of methamphetamine in a commercial truck at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas, valued at approximately $6 million.
A CBP spokesperson noted that the drug seizure data on their website does not include drugs seized as part of joint operations.