Crime & Safety
Mexican National Arrested in Meth Smuggling Attempt on I-15
A Mexican national was arrested when meth valued at about $458,600 was recovered during a Border Patrol stop near Temecula, authorities said.
U.S. Border Patrol agents prevented a methamphetamine smuggling attempt this week on Interstate 15 near Temecula, officials said.
About 2:45 p.m., Monday, Border Patrol agents stopped a 39-year-old man driving a 1998 Chevrolet Blazer on northbound I-15 near the checkpoint, according to a news release.
"Agents questioned the individual and a subsequent search revealed a large purple container in the cargo area that contained 15 bundles of methamphetamine," U.S. Border Patrol Agent Scott Simon said.
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The narcotics weighed 22.93 pounds and had an estimated street value of $458,600, according to Simon.
The suspected smuggler and drugs were taken into custody and turned over to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Simon said.
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The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol, he said.
To prevent illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on major corridors of egress away from our nation’s borders, Simon said.
To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at 951-498-9900.
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