Over $1.1 Million Worth Of Cocaine Seized At Texas Port Of Entry

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at a Texas port of entry seized more than $1.1 million worth of cocaine in two stops over three days last month.

CBP officers working at the Laredo Port of Entry’s World Trade Bridge on Monday, July 20, encountered a 2017 Kenworth tractor hauling a shipment of bell peppers, driven by a 31-year-old Mexican man, and referred the vehicle for secondary inspection using nonintrusive scanning equipment and a canine. Officers discovered 16 packages within the tractor, containing a total of 37.69 pounds of alleged cocaine.

On Wednesday, July 22, CBP officers at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge encountered a 2018 Kia Sportage driven by a 37-year-old Mexican woman and referred it for secondary inspection using nonintrusive scanning equipment and a canine. Officers discovered 22 packages within the vehicle containing a total of 50.37 pounds of alleged cocaine.

In total, the cocaine from both seizures was valued at $1,175, 967.

CBP seized the narcotics, the vehicle and the tractor. Both drivers were arrested and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent launched investigations.

“These significant seizures underscore the dedication and vigilance of our CBP officers in preventing dangerous narcotics from entering our country,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “Through the use of advanced technology, canine teams, and the commitment of our personnel, we continue to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and protect our communities from harm.”