Suspect ditches meth-filled backpack after jumping fence into U.S.

Border Patrol agents with El Centro Sector found a discarded backpack loaded with 8 pounds of methamphetamine after trying to apprehend a man who made an illegal entry into the United States near downtown Calexico on Monday.

Authorities said the suspect was seen climbing over the International Boundary Fence while wearing a backpack. Agents lost sight of the suspect near an apartment complex, but the man ditched the backpack after running away.

Authorities said they found eight cellophane-wrapped packages containing methamphetamine inside the backpack. The narcotics weighed 8.124 pounds with an estimated street value of $32,496.

The suspect was able to escape authorities and is still on the run. The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Agency for further investigation.

“”This seizure is significant in our ongoing effort to stop narcotic smuggling attempts at the hands of criminal organizations,” said Patrol Agent in Charge, Carlos E. Briones of the Calexico Station. “It also demonstrates the diligence of our agents in keeping the community safe from these harmful drugs.”

Since October 1, El Centro Sector has seized more than 72 pounds of methamphetamine, according to the border patrol.