Calexico, California - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Calexico East port of entry Monday seized 65 packages of methamphetamine hidden inside a spare tire.

The incident occurred on April 2, at about 11:15 p.m., at the Calexico East port of entry, when a CBP officer encountered a 43-year-old female Mexican citizen and legal permanent resident of the U.S. driving a blue 2014 Chevy Silverado. During the inspection, the officer detected anomalies to the spare tire and decided to escort both driver and vehicle for further examination.

Officers conducted and intensive examination that included the use of the port’s imaging system and a canine team. After the canine alerted to the vehicle’s undercarriage, officers discovered 65 wrapped packages of methamphetamine concealed inside the spare tire of the vehicle. The weight of the narcotic was 67 pounds with a street value of approximately $167,500.

“This seizure is another example of dedicated CBP officers using their skills and advanced technology to stop the smuggling of dangerous contraband into the United States,” said Area Port Director David Salazar.

The driver, a resident of Brawley, California, was arrested and turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigation agents for further processing. The driver was later transported to the Imperial County Jail where she currently awaits arraignment.

CBP seized the narcotics and vehicles.

CBP officers at the border crossings in Southern California routinely stop illegal activity, while processing millions of legitimate travelers into the United States.