Customs officers stationed at the Donna International Bridge had their hands full this Halloween, intercepting a narcotic shipment with a street value exceeding $1 million. In a press release, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced the seizure of 43 pounds of cocaine, discovered hidden within a vehicle driven by a 32-year-old Mexican citizen.
The haul totaled 19 packages of alleged cocaine, estimated to be worth around $1,265,453. This significant find underscores the ongoing challenge of drug trafficking facing border officers. According to CBP, in a statement, Progreso/Donna Port of Entry Port Director Michael Martinez lauded the officers for their "unwavering dedication to CBP’s border security mission and their critical role in preventing dangerous drugs from entering our country and infiltrating our communities."
Following the discovery, officials seized the vehicle and the narcotics. The driver was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations special agents, who have initiated a criminal investigation. CBP El Paso officials stated that officers continue to enforce narcotics laws and prevent illegal substances from entering the United States. "Our frontline CBP officers maintain a constant and active vigilance against narcotic trafficking," Martinez told the press, according to CBP.
