Narcotics seizures at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry doubled in February, compared with the previous month, authorities reported today.
Federal agents stopped more than 6,000 pounds of heroin, cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamine from entering the country through the southern San Diego checkpoint last month, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
In January, a total of 2,859 pounds of illegal drugs were confiscated at the inspection station.
Several factors, including "rigorous enforcement" on the part of the Border Patrol and CBP air and marine personnel, likely account for the change, said Bruce Ward, assistant director for the port's passenger facility.
While we can't pinpoint the exact reason for the recent increase, I do know that we have many new officers here who are now entering their second year of service and hitting their stride," Ward said.
