More than 5,000 pounds (2,200 kg) of methamphetamine was discovered hidden in a truck on the US-Mexico border during a “record-breaking” seizure, authorities said.
Believed to be one of the largest methamphetamine busts in San Diego history, the stash contained 148 bundles of the drug.
Four men from Tijuana, a Mexico, were charged accordingly.
“This monumental seizure represents another victory against drug addiction cartels in the United States,” said US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Special Agent Shelly Howe.
“Thanks to our great collaborations with other law enforcement agencies, we will continue to stop the drug flow of cartels in our cities.”
In a tweet, the San Diego sheriff recognized one member of the team for their hard work: a police dog named Milo.
“K-9 Milo is a good guy after helping our deputies and law enforcement partners make one of the largest methamphetamine arrests in San Diego County history,” said Sheriff Anthony Ray.
Milo the police dog was praised for his work. Photo: San Diego Sheriff
Officers found the illegal substance hidden inside a 20-foot van that crossed the border Thursday, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California said.
After surveying the truck, officers watched the defendants unload “dozen cardboard boxes” onto a Dodge van.
Rafael Alzua, 37, Mario Contreras, 41, Ethgar Velazquez, 44, and Galdrino Contreras, 41, were then arrested by law enforcement and charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs.
If found guilty, they could face life imprisonment and a £ 8.4 million ($ 10 million) fine.
