Stephanie Talton, Deputy Assistant Commissioner | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas, have intercepted over 41 pounds of THC products concealed within a commercial shipment during outbound operations. The operation took place on November 5 when officers selected a tractor and trailer for secondary inspection due to inadequate export documentation.
During the physical inspection, CBP officers discovered 41.71 pounds of various THC-infused items, including vape cartridges, seltzer beverage cans, gummies, and roll-on gel. These products contain Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound found in marijuana known for its sedative and hallucinogenic effects depending on the dosage.
In addition to the THC products, officers also found three Colt AR trigger components and 16 AR-15 barrel nut tools hidden within the shipment. The discovery led to the seizure of the THC items, weapon parts, as well as the tractor and trailer used for transportation.
Port Director Alberto Flores of Laredo Port of Entry praised the efforts of his team: “Officers conducting outbound operations demonstrated exceptional effort in successfully disrupting this smuggling attempt,” he said. He highlighted that this case exemplifies "efficient targeting strategies utilized in the cargo environment to help ensure exported products are safe for consumers."
Following these events, Homeland Security Investigations special agents have commenced a criminal investigation into the matter.
For updates on similar incidents or other news from CBP’s Laredo Field Office, follow them on social media platforms such as X at @DFOLaredo or Instagram at @dfolaredo. U.S. Customs and Border Protection can also be followed at @CBPSouthTexas for more information on their activities.
CBP stands as America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding national security across land, air, and sea domains while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
