Authorities at the Hidalgo International Bridge have made a substantial bust, seizing an estimated $1.4 million worth of cocaine, a cache of weapons, and over a thousand rounds of ammunition across three incidents, as detailed by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These successful interceptions highlight the ongoing and rigorous efforts of CBP officers to curb the smuggling of illegal contraband through our nation's ports of entry.
The string of seizures began on November 15, when CBP officers, aiming to maintain the safety of our borders, stopped a silver Chevrolet SUV for inspection upon its entry from Mexico. The routine check turned exceptional when CBP's methodical approach, employing non-intrusive inspection equipment and a canine team, led to the discovery of 27.78 pounds of alleged cocaine hidden within the vehicle. This haul, with a street value of $370,893, isn't just about the numbers.
Just hours later, the CBP carried out another coordinated operation, this time intercepting illegal firearms and ammunition heading the other way. During outbound inspections at the Anzalduas International Bridge, officers found four handguns, 1,070 rounds of ammunition, six magazines, and 21 weapon components in a white Chevrolet pick-up. These items, if smuggled into Mexico, could have fueled violent operations and caused significant harm.
Two days later, on Sunday, officers once more demonstrated their unrelenting vigilance, uncovering 30 packages of alleged cocaine weighing 77.34 pounds inside a white Mazda SUV. With the narcotics valued at roughly $1,032,614. As per U.S. Customs and Border Protection statement issued, Port Director Carlos Rodriguez expressed both pride and determination, stating, “Our CBP officers don’t skip a beat when it comes to keeping our country safe. These back-to-back interceptions of weapons, ammunition, and narcotics illustrate the tireless work being done at our port of entry.”
The CBP has ensured that the narcotics, weapons, ammunition, and weapon parts, along with the vehicles, were seized and taken into custody. Homeland Security Investigations special agents and Hidalgo HIDTA are intensively working to follow up these incidents with thorough criminal investigations.
