For the second time in less than a week, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility have intercepted a significant shipment of methamphetamine. The latest seizure involved more than $15 million worth of the drug hidden within a tractor trailer transporting carrots.
Port Director Carlos Rodriguez from the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry stated, "This second large load of methamphetamine in the last four days underscores the serious nature of the drug threat we face and the effectiveness of officer experience, inspection techniques, and technology to prevent these loads from moving further north and poisoning our communities."
On July 10, CBP officers encountered a commercial tractor trailer entering from Mexico with a carrot shipment. The vehicle was referred for further inspection using nonintrusive equipment and a canine team. A physical inspection revealed 311 packages of alleged methamphetamine weighing 1,706.37 pounds (774 kg), valued at approximately $15,690,528.
The narcotics and commercial tractor trailer were seized by CBP's Office of Field Operations (OFO). Homeland Security Investigations special agents have launched a criminal investigation into the matter.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is America's largest law enforcement organization responsible for border management. With over 65,000 personnel, CBP works to protect America on land, air, and sea while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
