INDIO, Calif. — El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents arrested two women after they were allegedly caught with 176 pounds of methamphetamine, valued at an estimated $149,727.

The incident occurred on August 22 at a Highway 86 immigration checkpoint when a black SUV, driven by a 42-year-old U.S. citizen and accompanied by a 36-year-old female passenger, approached for inspection. A Border Patrol K-9 detection team alerted to the vehicle, prompting a more thorough search.

Agents discovered several plastic-wrapped packages containing a crystalline substance hidden in various vehicle compartments. The contents tested positive for methamphetamine, leading to the immediate arrest of both women. Their vehicle and the drugs were seized by Border Patrol.

According to Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jo

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