U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Rio Grande City Port of Entry seized over $956,000 worth of cocaine during a recent enforcement action. The seizure took place on May 16 at the Rio Grande City International Bridge when a tractor-trailer was directed for secondary inspection.
Port Director Rogelio Olivares commented on the operation, stating, “This seizure illustrates the effective combination of CBP officer skill, experience and the utilization of all tools and resources, including our canines to zero in on hidden narcotics.” He added that such actions exemplify CBP's dedication to border security while facilitating legal trade and travel.
During the inspection, officers used a nonintrusive inspection system alongside canine units to uncover 31 packages containing approximately 69.44 pounds of suspected cocaine within the vehicle. The estimated street value of these narcotics is $956,070.
The seized narcotics along with the tractor and trailer were handed over to Starr County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area officers. They arrested the driver and began a criminal investigation into the matter.
For updates from CBP’s Laredo Field Office, follow them on X at @DFOLaredo or U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas for news and stories.
CBP remains America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel working across various domains to protect national security while promoting lawful travel and commerce.
