CBP intercepts 11 drug smuggling attempts over weekend

Monday, January 11, 2010 at 8:47 p.m.

Federal agents seized about 1,000 pounds of illegal narcotics valued at more than $820,000 from drug traffickers over the weekend at ports of entry at the U.S.-Mexico border in San Diego County, authorities reported today.

Customs and Border Protection officers foiled the 11 attempts to smuggle marijuana and methamphetamine across the international border over a 72-hour period beginning at 6 a.m. Friday.

The contraband was found hidden in various sections of vehicles, including gas tanks, quarter panels and spare tires, according to CBP public affairs.

Over the three-day period, Customs agents staffing local border ports also arrested nine people wanted on outstanding felony warrants for various crimes, including larceny, burglary and homicide.

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE60A1G820100111