Andrade, California - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Andrade port of entry discovered approximately $283,000 worth of hard narcotics hidden inside the quarter panels of a vehicle.

The incident occurred on Thursday, at about 9:45p.m., when a CBP officer conducting primary inspections encountered a 32-year-old man driving a Black Honda Accord. The officer referred the driver to secondary inspection for a more in-depth examination of the vehicle.

During the intensive inspection, officers utilized a CBP canine team and discovered 51 wrapped packages of methamphetamine, and six packages of heroin hidden inside the quarter panels.

The weight of the narcotics was 56 pounds of methamphetamine and 15 pounds of heroin with a combined estimated street value of $283,000.

“Even during the holidays our officers remain vigilant in protecting the homeland from all threats,” said Andrade Port Director David Sarrasin.

The driver, a Mexican citizen and resident of Banning, California was arrested for the alleged narcotic smuggling attempt. CBP officers turned him over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigation agents for further processing. The man was later transported to the Imperial County Jail where he currently awaits arraignment.