San Diego, January 24, 2026
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection in San Diego intercepted nearly 33,000 pounds of narcotics valued at $111 million from October to December 2025. The significant seizures underscore the dedication of law enforcement in fighting drug trafficking and ensuring public safety. Notably, on November 6, officers seized a Dodge truck containing various drugs, including fentanyl and heroin. These continued law enforcement efforts aim to dismantle drug networks and ensure community safety while fostering dialogue on drug policy.
San Diego Intercepts $111 Million in Narcotics Over Three Months
San Diego, California – The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) San Diego Field Office has reported a significant development in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking. Between October and December 2025, CBP officers intercepted nearly 33,000 pounds of narcotics, with a street value estimated at $111 million. This latest round of seizures underscores the dedication of law enforcement in safeguarding communities while simultaneously highlighting the need for constructive dialogue on policy significance in controlling drug inflow.
The interception reflects a tumultuous struggle against an evolving drug trade that continues to threaten public safety and economic stability in the region. A proactive approach from local and federal authorities has led to recent successes, demonstrating the impact of effective border control and articulate law enforcement methodologies.
Details of the Seizures
Among the notable interceptions was a significant stop at the Calexico West Port of Entry on November 6, 2025. Utilizing advanced X-ray technology, officers detected anomalies in a Dodge truck, prompting an in-depth search of the vehicle. Officers discovered 17.28 pounds of fentanyl powder, 90.94 pounds of cocaine, and 165.39 pounds of heroin ingeniously concealed within the truck’s spare tire, rear fenders, center console, and firewall. The estimated street value of this specific seizure was approximately $2,480,714, and the operator of the vehicle, a lawful permanent resident, was taken into custody for further investigation.
Statement from CBP
Sidney Aki, Director of Field Operations for San Diego, emphasized the unwavering commitment of CBP officers to securing the nation’s borders. He noted that the interception of such a significant volume of narcotics highlights the professionalism and diligence of the team dedicated to public safety and community well-being.
Background on Narcotics Seizures in San Diego
San Diego has served as a critical battleground in the fight against narcotics trafficking for several years. In December 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active made headlines by offloading approximately 27,551 pounds of cocaine in the region, valued at $203.9 million. This particular operation stemmed from separate interdictions targeting suspected drug-smuggling vessels operating in international waters off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Moreover, August 2025 saw CBP officers at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry intercept nearly 10,000 pounds of narcotics, valued at $24 million. These incidences encapsulate continuous efforts by various law enforcement agencies to dismantle drug trafficking networks and safeguard the region’s populace.
Conclusion
The series of seizures within San Diego emphasizes the focused and coordinated operations undertaken by federal agencies dedicated to disrupting narcotics influx and ensuring the safety of communities. Such efforts form an essential aspect of public safety and highlight the tangible outcomes of effective regulatory measures against drug smuggling. Citizens are encouraged to continue supporting local initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and community resilience while maintaining vigilance against the ongoing threat posed by narcotics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of narcotics were seized in San Diego during the quarter from October to December 2025?
The seizures included fentanyl powder, cocaine, and heroin, with a total weight of nearly 33,000 pounds and an estimated street value of $111 million.
How did CBP officers discover the drugs in the vehicle on November 6, 2025?
An X-ray scan of the Dodge truck revealed anomalies, leading officers to search the vehicle and find the concealed narcotics within the spare tire, rear fenders, center console, and firewall.
What was the estimated street value of the drugs seized in the November 6, 2025, operation?
The estimated street value of the drugs seized was $2,480,714.
What actions were taken against the driver involved in the November 6, 2025, seizure?
The driver, a lawful permanent resident, was taken into custody and referred to Homeland Security Investigations for further action.
Have there been other significant narcotics seizures in San Diego recently?
Yes, in December 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active offloaded approximately 27,551 pounds of cocaine, valued at $203.9 million, in San Diego. Additionally, in August 2025, CBP officers intercepted nearly 10,000 pounds of narcotics valued at $24 million at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry Commercial Facility.
Key Features of the Seizures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | San Diego, California |
| Timeframe | October to December 2025 |
| Total Narcotics Seized | Nearly 33,000 pounds |
| Estimated Street Value | $111 million |
| Types of Narcotics | Fentanyl powder, cocaine, heroin |
| Notable Seizure Date | November 6, 2025 |
| Seizure Location | Calexico West Port of Entry |
| Vehicle Involved | Dodge truck |
| Estimated Street Value of November 6 Seizure | $2,480,714 |
| Driver’s Status | Lawful permanent resident, taken into custody, referred to Homeland Security Investigations |
| Coast Guard Seizure Date | December 2025 |
| Coast Guard Seizure Details | 27,551 pounds of cocaine, valued at $203.9 million |
| CBP Seizure Date | August 2025 |
| CBP Seizure Details | Nearly 10,000 pounds of narcotics, valued at $24 million |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Major Cocaine Smuggling Attempt Thwarted in Temecula
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.


