U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and agriculture specialists at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility recently intercepted a shipment containing 14,745 pounds of fresh hog plum and fresh passion fruit. The seizure occurred on October 20 when a tractor trailer arriving from Mexico was inspected.
The shipment was declared as fresh lime and chayote. However, during further inspection involving non-intrusive equipment and a canine team, discrepancies were found. Upon physical examination, officers discovered paper-wrapped produce that did not match the manifest. Samples were sent to the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) for identification, confirming the presence of prohibited fruits: hog plum and passion fruit.
Carlos Rodriguez, Port Director for Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry, emphasized the importance of this operation by stating: “Our mission to safeguard American agriculture is just as important as intercepting narcotics. Keeping prohibited pests and diseases from damaging American agriculture helps keep the costs of goods down.”
The seized fruits are known to potentially harbor pests like fruit flies that pose a threat to American agriculture. Consequently, CBP OFO confiscated the fruits for destruction. The carrier involved faced a $5,000 penalty due to unmanifested produce violations while USDA Investigative and Enforcement Services initiated an investigation into the matter.
CBP remains vigilant in its role as America's frontline defense against illegal imports that could harm domestic industries or violate regulations.
For updates on similar operations or other news related to border protection efforts, follow the Director of CBP’s Laredo Field Office on X at @DFOLaredo or U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas.