U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted more than $8.1 million worth of suspected methamphetamine at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility, according to an April 28 announcement.
The seizure highlights ongoing efforts by border officials to prevent illegal drugs from entering the United States through commercial shipments.
CBP officers encountered a commercial tractor trailer arriving from Reynosa, Mexico, on April 21. The vehicle was sent for secondary inspection using nonintrusive equipment and a canine team. During a physical inspection of tile pallets, officers discovered packages containing white powder that tested positive for methamphetamine properties. Authorities extracted 200 packages with a total weight of approximately 908 pounds (412 kilograms) concealed within the shipment. The estimated street value is $8,119,696. Both the narcotics and tractor trailer were seized, and Homeland Security Investigation special agents have started a criminal investigation into the incident.
"As this significant seizure aptly illustrates, CBP officers work tirelessly to ensure that commerce flows and hard narcotics are stopped in their tracks," said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez of the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.
According to CBP's statement, fulfilling President Donald J. Trump’s mandate under DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has resulted in increased border security measures aimed at stopping dangerous criminal activity and illicit drug trafficking.
CBP describes itself as America's frontline law enforcement organization with over 67,000 personnel working across land, air, and sea to enforce safe travel and trade while supporting national security.
