IMPERIAL, Calif. — U.S. Border Patrol El Centro Sector (ELC) has experienced an increase of dangerous narcotics seizures within the past two months when compared to the same time period last fiscal year.

This fiscal year to date 2021, ELC has seen an 85 percent increase in fentanyl and an over 500 percent increase in methamphetamine seizures. Since the beginning of the fiscal year, ELC has seized 509.12 pounds of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $1,145,520 and 29.12 pounds of fentanyl with an estimated street value of $330,225.

These significant seizures have taken place at our immigration checkpoints and along our border in Calexico. In the midst of the pandemic, Border Patrol agents continue to protect our nation from all cross-border threats including that of deadly and illicit substances.

The following are the total drug seizures for El Centro Sector since FY 2021 began on October 1st:

Cocaine: 38.19 lbs.

Marijuana: 9.87 lbs.

Meth: 509.12 lbs.

Heroin: 114.4 oz.

Fentanyl: 29.12 lbs.

To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our Nation’s borders.