In a revealing bust on Friday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Bridge of the Americas port of entry confiscated a substantial amount of fentanyl. The drugs, weighing a total of 132.4 grams, were stashed inside the rectum of a 56-year-old male U.S. citizen. This method of concealment poses high risks, as noted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The capture unfolded in the early hours, just before the sun peeked over the horizon. A man, whose identity remains undisclosed, was subjected to a routine check as he entered through the BOTA pedestrian crossing. A CBP canine on duty signaled the presence of the narcotics. Subsequent examinations at a local medical facility revealed the concealed drugs, packed in condom-wrapped bundles within the man's body, a dangerous smuggling technique that has CBP urging individuals to think twice about risking their lives.
During a relatively swift and likely uncomfortable 90-minute wait, the man passed two bundles. The first contained 81.6 grams of white powder, and the second held 50.8 grams of blue pills. Both substances tested positive for fentanyl, adding evidence to what the CBP's report detailed about the bust.
"Smuggling fentanyl internally is exceptionally dangerous, and we would advise anyone considering this to think twice and not risk their life or liberty," said CBP El Paso Port Director Ray Provencio, as per U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Following the unsuccessful smuggling attempt, officers arrested the driver, and he was then handed over to Homeland Security Investigations to face charges.
