Major Drug Seizures and Arrests by U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers in El Paso.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in the El Paso region made a series of significant seizures and arrests last week, with one notable event involving the discovery of 64 pounds of methamphetamine.

On February 14, at the Ysleta port of entry, CBP agents stopped a 32-year-old Mexican man driving a 2008 Ford F-150. During a search of the vehicle, officers uncovered 56 bundles of methamphetamine hidden in the rear seats, backseat, and spare tire. A drug-sniffing dog assisted in finding additional drugs. The driver was handed over to the Texas Department of Public Safety and will face charges at the state level.

Hector Mancha, CBP's Director of Field Operations in El Paso, commented, “CBP officers remain steadfast in their efforts to execute their primary homeland security mission. Their inspections will often uncover multiple violations and help separate law-abiding travelers from those who pose a risk to our community.”

CBP officers also seized illegal drugs like cocaine and marijuana, along with peyote cream. On February 17, they intercepted 180 rooster gaffs and 7,500 animal steroid tablets from a traveler arriving from Mexico. Rooster gaffs, sharp instruments used in animal-fighting activities, are banned under U.S. law, and the traveler was fined $2,000.

CBP agriculture specialists issued nearly $4,000 in penalties for attempts to smuggle in banned agricultural products, including raw eggs from Mexico, which is prohibited by U.S. regulations. So far this year, over 90 individuals have attempted to import raw eggs into the U.S.

The past week also saw the apprehension of 30 fugitives wanted for various crimes, including assault, drug offenses, probation violations, and vehicle theft. These individuals were processed and handed over to local law enforcement.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in El Paso has recently undertaken several significant enforcement actions:

Arrest of CBP Officer for Smuggling Activities

Manuel Perez Jr., a 32-year-old CBP officer from El Paso, was arrested on charges of alien smuggling and drug trafficking. Between December 21, 2023, and February 5, 2025, Perez allegedly facilitated the entry of undocumented individuals into the U.S. for financial gain, admitting vehicles driven by undocumented noncitizens at the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry. He faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

 Discovery of Smuggling Tunnel Between Mexico and U.S.

In January 2025, authorities uncovered a 1,000-foot smuggling tunnel connecting Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, to El Paso, Texas. The tunnel, equipped with lighting, ventilation, and reinforced wooden beams, was likely used for trafficking people and contraband. The Mexican Attorney General’s Office is leading the investigation, while U.S. officials are working to seal the tunnel permanently.

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