U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Hidalgo International Bridge have intercepted $1.4 million worth of cocaine, along with a cache of weapons and ammunition, in three separate incidents. The seizures took place over several days and involved vehicles entering from Mexico.
Port Director Carlos Rodriguez commented on the efforts, stating, "Our CBP officers don’t skip a beat when it comes to keeping our country safe. These back-to-back interceptions of weapons, ammunition, and narcotics illustrate the tireless work being done at our port of entry."
The first incident occurred on November 15 when CBP officers inspected a silver Chevrolet SUV entering from Mexico. Using non-intrusive inspection equipment and canine screening, officers discovered 12 packages of alleged cocaine weighing 27.78 pounds concealed within the vehicle. The street value of this cocaine is estimated at $370,893.
Later that day, during outbound enforcement operations at the Anzalduas International Bridge, officers inspected a white Chevrolet pick-up truck. They found four handguns, 1,070 rounds of ammunition in various calibers, six weapon magazines for different rifle brands and calibers, and 21 weapon components intended for Mexico.
On November 17, another significant seizure was made when CBP officers inspected a white Mazda SUV also coming from Mexico. This search revealed 30 packages of alleged cocaine weighing 77.34 pounds hidden inside the vehicle. The estimated street value for this amount is $1,032,614.
The seized narcotics, weapons, ammunition, weapon parts as well as the vehicles used for transport were confiscated by CBP OFO. Homeland Security Investigations special agents have initiated criminal investigations into these incidents. Additionally, Hidalgo HIDTA has launched an investigation into the larger cocaine seizure resulting in the arrest of the driver involved.
For more updates on similar events or news related to U.S. Customs and Border Protection activities in South Texas follow their social media accounts.
CBP remains committed to its mission as America's largest law enforcement organization ensuring security through innovative measures while facilitating lawful travel and trade across borders.
