More than $400K of liquid meth found in gas tank seized by CBP

Agents working at the Calexico East port of entry seized 163 pounds of liquid methamphetamine after inspecting a vehicle shortly after 5 p.m. on Saturday.

CBP said they stopped a 2001 Ford Ranger after detecting inconsistencies with the traveler’s itinerary and later referred both the 22-year-old driver and vehicle for a more in-depth examination.

Using the port’s imaging system and a CBP narcotics detector dog, agents found 163 pounds of liquid methamphetamine concealed inside the gas tank.

The street value of the narcotics was $407,500.

CBP said the driver was arrested for the smuggling attempt and turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further processing.

Later, the suspect was transported to the Imperial County Jail to await arraignment.

“This interdiction removes a sizeable amount of methamphetamine from the streets of our communities and the reach of our youth,” said Area Port Director David Salazar. “The seizure of dangerous narcotics plays an important part in keeping our borders secure.”

CBP seized the vehicle and narcotics.