U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted more than $2.7 million worth of alleged cocaine concealed in a shipment of bottled beverages at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility, according to a July 22 announcement.
Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry, said, “This successful interception highlights the effectiveness of our layered enforcement strategy. Through the combination of advanced technology and the keen instincts of our frontline personnel, we continue to identify and dismantle smuggling attempts.”
On July 15, CBP officers encountered a tractor trailer traveling from Reynosa, Mexico. The vehicle was referred for secondary inspection using nonintrusive inspection equipment that revealed anomalies within the trailer. A physical inspection led to the extraction of 79 packages of alleged cocaine with a combined weight of 208.33 pounds (94.5 kilograms) concealed inside.
CBP’s Office of Field Operations seized both the narcotics and vehicle involved in the incident. Homeland Security Investigation Special Agents have initiated a criminal investigation into the case.
The Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection stated that under DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin’s leadership, they have delivered heightened border security efforts focused on stopping criminal activity and illicit narcotics from entering communities across America.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America’s largest law enforcement organization, with over 70,000 personnel responsible for enforcing safe travel and trade while enhancing national security.