Border Patrol Seizes $1.3 Million in Cocaine from Traveler at San Luis Crossing

By Matthew Holloway |

U.S. Immigration and Border Enforcement Officers achieved a significant success against drug trafficking in San Luis, Arizona. They arrested an American citizen after discovering over $1.3 million worth of cocaine hidden in a suspicious vehicle. The incident unfolded on June 20th when a 26-year-old male drove a pickup truck through the SENTRI inspection lane from Mexico. The SENTRI system facilitates expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers but still requires rigorous vetting.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the driver was referred for further inspection when an officer detected irregularities in the spare tire. The secondary examination proved fruitful: a CBP canine unit alerted officers to possible narcotics. In a thorough search, fifty packages of cocaine were recovered, enhancing the estimated street value to $1,317,580.

Chris Leon, Area Port Director for San Luis, commended the officers’ dedication, stating that their efforts in extreme heat prevented these dangerous drugs from entering communities. The suspect, whose identity remains confidential, has been turned over to Homeland Security Investigations. His vehicle and the seized narcotics have also been confiscated.

CBP noted that federal law permits officers to charge individuals by complaint, emphasizing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.