In a significant drug interception, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Pharr International Bridge stopped over $1 million in cocaine from crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. The seizure occurred at the cargo facility where officers discovered quantities of the drug expertly concealed within a commercial vehicle. CBP's press release confirmed the details of the operation that took place last Friday.
A commercial tractor-trailer attempting to enter from Mexico was selected for a comprehensive inspection, which included the use of high-tech, nonintrusive equipment and the assistance of a canine team. During the inspection, officers uncovered 30 packages of suspected cocaine.
The Port Director for the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry, Carlos Rodriguez, lauded the vigilance and technique of the CBP officers, saying, "Our CBP officers use all available tools and resources to find and identify narcotics at our international crossings." This commendation was included in the CBP release and illustrated the ongoing efforts to combat the trafficking of illegal substances into the United States.
The discovery included about 76.19 pounds (34.56 kilograms) of cocaine, with an estimated value of $1,017,300. Following standard procedure, CBP officers seized both the drugs and the vehicle. Homeland Security Investigations has launched a criminal investigation to uncover the drug smuggling network—how the drugs were packed, who was involved, and the route they took before reaching the border.
