U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Rio Grande City International Bridge cargo facility have seized over $549,000 worth of cocaine that was hidden in a commercial vehicle. The incident took place on December 2 when officers encountered a 2007 Kenworth tractor trying to enter the United States from Mexico.
According to CBP, the vehicle was selected for further inspection using nonintrusive inspection equipment. A physical search led to the discovery of 18 packages of suspected cocaine with a total weight of 41.44 pounds (18.66 kilograms) concealed within the vehicle.
"CBP utilized all available tools and resources to stop this smuggling attempt and prevent these drugs from entering our country," said Port Director Rogelio Olivares, Rio Grande City Port of Entry.
The narcotics and the vehicle were seized by CBP Office of Field Operations officers. Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested the driver and have started a criminal investigation into the matter.
CBP is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization and manages border security on land, air, and sea. The agency's mission includes enforcing safe travel and trade while enhancing national security through various strategies including innovation and collaboration.
For more updates, follow the Director of CBP’s Laredo Field Office on X at @DFOLaredo and on Instagram at @dfolaredo as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas.
