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A near-record load of marijuana — more than 15 tons — was seized this week at the Otay Mesa border crossing from a truck carrying a shipment of mattresses and cushions, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Authorities say this truck was carrying 15 tons of marijuana, making it the largest narcotics seizure ever at the Otay Mesa border crossing. (Credit: U.S. Customs and Border Protections)
Authorities say this truck was carrying 15 tons of marijuana, making it the largest narcotics seizure ever at the Otay Mesa border crossing. (Credit: U.S. Customs and Border Protections)

Agents found 1,296 packages of marijuana inside the truck’s trailer. The 31,598 pounds of pot had an estimated street value of $18.96 million, officials said.

The truck driver, a 46-year-old Mexican national, was arrested and the truck-and-trailer and its contents seized.

The seizure was made Thursday night when the truck was directed for an X-ray exam and agents noticed “an anomaly.”

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