CBP Officers Seize More Than $618K in Cocaine
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
HIDALGO, TEXAS (News Release) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Hidalgo International Bridge, intercepted more than $618,000 in alleged cocaine concealed within a vehicle.
“Our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain strict vigilance, even amid the sweltering heat this week, and seized a significant load of cocaine,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “Seizures like these exemplify CBP’s continued commitment to advancing the agency’s border security mission.”
On May 14, CBP officers assigned to the Hidalgo International Bridge encountered a 2013 Nissan Rogue making entry from Mexico. A CBP officer referred the vehicle for further inspection, which included utilizing nonintrusive inspection equipment and a canine team. Physical inspection led to the discovery of 21 packages of alleged cocaine with a combined weight of 46.34 pounds (21.02 kg) concealed within the vehicle.
The cocaine had an estimated street value of $618,744.
CBP OFO seized the narcotics and vehicle and turned them over to Texas Department of Public Safety officers who arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.
