U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Bridge of the Americas international crossing in El Paso have seized 40 grams of powdered fentanyl and 57 grams of fentanyl pills. The drugs were found on May 12, concealed within three small packages inside the rectum of a 47-year-old male U.S. citizen who was crossing the border on foot. Additionally, officers confiscated a small amount of methamphetamine from his travel bag.
"Fentanyl is a dangerous drug, and any exposure could be deadly but when it is in a powder form the danger increases exponentially," stated CBP El Paso Port Director Ray Provencio. "Not only is the smuggler at risk but so is anyone else in the vicinity if the packaging would be compromised and the powder became airborne."
The incident began around 1:20 a.m. when the man arrived from Mexico as a pedestrian. A CBP drug-sniffing dog alerted officers to potential drugs, leading them to discover methamphetamine wrapped in foil in his bag.
The individual informed CBP officers that he was also carrying drugs internally. He was taken to a medical facility where an examination confirmed multiple objects concealed inside him. By 9:15 a.m., under medical supervision, he had expelled three bundles which tested positive for fentanyl.
Following this, he was returned to the port of entry, arrested, and handed over to Homeland Security Investigations special agents for federal charges related to this smuggling attempt.
CBP serves as America's frontline defense with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting national security through various means including facilitating lawful travel and trade while ensuring economic prosperity.
