U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry recently intercepted a substantial cache of weapons, magazines, and ammunition during an outbound inspection. The operation has prompted Homeland Security Investigations special agents to initiate a criminal investigation.
Port Director Pete Beattie highlighted the significance of this seizure, stating, "Our frontline officers conducting outbound operations while maintaining strict vigilance and their application of inspections skills, experience and technology, resulted in a significant outbound weapons interception." He further emphasized that such seizures "perfectly exemplify and illustrate CBP’s continued commitment as part of U.S. efforts to help secure our shared border with Mexico."
The discovery took place on Saturday, March 15, at the Camino Real International Bridge. During routine outbound examinations, CBP officers selected a 2001 Ford pickup truck for further inspection. Utilizing CBP canines and nonintrusive inspection systems, they uncovered five weapons, four magazines, and 987 rounds of ammunition concealed within the vehicle.
For updates on similar operations or related news stories from the Laredo Field Office or U.S. Customs and Border Protection in South Texas, interested parties are encouraged to follow their social media accounts.
CBP is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding national security across various domains including land borders, airspace, and maritime environments. Their mission encompasses facilitating lawful travel and trade while enhancing economic prosperity through innovation and collaboration.
