CBP: Two teenagers caught trying to smuggle meth into El Paso

Customs and Border Protection officer working at the El Paso ports of entry made a pair of methamphetamine seizures Wednesday.

In both cases, officials said, the violators were 17-year-old’s who had the drugs strapped to their bodies.

“These two teenagers are facing charges associated with their failed attempt,” said Beverly Good, CBP El Paso Port Director. “Becoming involved in the drug smuggling trade at any age has severe consequences as these two are now learning.”

The first seizure was made just before 1 p.m. when a 17-year-old U.S. citizen male arrived as a pedestrian at the Bridge of the Americas. CBP officers noticed the teen was nervous and evasive during routine processing.

CBP officers also noted a bulge in the lower groin area of the border crosser. An inspection confirmed the presence of a package taped to his waist and groin area. Officials said the package was removed and found to contain two bundles filled with a substance which tested positive as methamphetamine. The drugs weighed 2.75 pounds.

The second seizure was made just after 5 p.m. when a 17-year-old U.S. citizen female arrived as a pedestrian at the Ysleta international crossing

CBP officers selected the border crosser for a canine exam. A drug sniffing dog named “Basa” alerted officers to the presence of three packages attached to the leg of the subject. The packages were removed and found to contain a substance which tested positive as methamphetamine. The drugs weighed 3.15 pounds.

CBP officers took both subjects into custody and turned over to the Texas Department of Public Safety to face charges.