CBP Stops Massive Meth Shipment Disguised as Watermelons

CBP Stops Massive Meth Shipment Disguised as Watermelons

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Otay Mesa Commercial Facility seized over $5 million worth of methamphetamine concealed within a shipment of watermelons. The incident occurred when a 29-year-old man driving a commercial tractor-trailer sought entry into the United States from Mexico. The driver, who held a valid border crossing card, had declared the shipment as watermelons.

Image: CBP officers found 4587 pounds of meth in a shipment of disguised watermelons. Source: CBP

During a secondary inspection, CBP officers discovered 1,220 packages disguised as watermelons within the shipment. The packages contained methamphetamine with an estimated street value of over $5 million. CBP officers seized the narcotics, the tractor-trailer, and turned the driver over to Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation.

Rosa E. Hernandez, Port Director for the Area Port of Otay Mesa, praised her team's efforts in uncovering the sophisticated smuggling attempt. She emphasized CBP's ongoing commitment to preventing dangerous drugs and other contraband from entering the United States.

The seizure is part of Operation Apollo, a counter-fentanyl initiative that began in October 2023 and focuses on intelligence gathering, partnerships, and increased resources to target fentanyl smuggling.