In a sizable drug bust at Del Rio Port of Entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers have made a significant cocaine seizure valued over half a million dollars. The details unfolded in the discovery, as officers intercepted a Dodge 3500 pick-up, which was concealing 23 packages of cocaine, total weighing over 38 pounds, according to official statements released by the CBP.
During an intensive secondary inspection on September 18th, that included advanced non-intrusive inspection technology, the illicit drugs were found within a hidden compartment in the vehicle's floorboard, and although the bust is a win for the CBP unit, such success throws light on the relentless tide of illicit substances that continues to challenge border security measures. The seized cocaine has an estimated street value of $516,896, a substantial figure that underscores the scale of the drug trafficking operations.
Liliana Flores, Port Director at Del Rio Port of Entry, hailed the diligence and commitment of the officers involved, stating to CBP's official website, "Our frontline officers continue to maintain strict vigilance and their attention to detail and dedication to the border security mission resulted in this significant seizure." Flores' comments appreciate the combined efforts of technology and personnel in safeguarding the nation's borders.
Following the seizure, the narcotics were confiscated by CBP and a criminal investigation has been initiated by special agents from Homeland Security Investigations.
