Ryan J. Scudder Executive Assistant Commissioner | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Pharr International Bridge seized over $17.4 million worth of methamphetamine this past weekend in a significant enforcement action.
"Our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain a robust enforcement posture in the cargo environment and by effectively utilizing their training, experience, technology and canines they prevented a massive load of methamphetamine from wreaking havoc on our streets," said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. "This seizure underscores the seriousness of the drug threat we face on a daily basis and the resolve of our officers to keep our communities safe."
The incident occurred on September 28 when a CBP officer directed a tractor trailer carrying coconuts for secondary inspection. During this examination, which included non-intrusive inspection systems and CBP canines, officers discovered 378 packages containing nearly 1,950 pounds of alleged methamphetamine hidden within the trailer. The estimated street value of these narcotics is $17,431,726.
Following the discovery, CBP seized both the narcotics and the tractor trailer. Homeland Security Investigations special agents have since initiated a criminal investigation into the matter.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America's frontline: it is the nation's largest law enforcement organization and claims to be the world's first unified border management agency. With over 65,000 personnel, CBP's mission includes protecting America across various terrains while facilitating lawful travel and trade to ensure economic prosperity.
For updates on breaking news and current events from CBP’s Laredo Field Office, follow @DFOLaredo on X (formerly Twitter) or @CBPSouthTexas for broader regional information.
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