Traffic Stop on Highway 77 Leads to Seizure of $138,000, Marijuana in Kingsville
South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS (News Release) - A traffic stop conducted by the South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force resulted in the seizure of $138,000 in cash and approximately one pound of marijuana, according to authorities.
Photo courtesy of South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force.
On May 26, 2026, Special Agents with the South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force, operating under Operation Lone Star, stopped a vehicle traveling southbound on Highway 77 in Kingsville.
During the roadside investigation, agents made contact with the driver and passenger, both residents of Harlingen. Authorities said investigative methods, training, and experience led agents to develop reasonable suspicion that the vehicle's occupants were involved in criminal activity.
K9 Ayax was deployed to assist with the investigation and alerted on the vehicle. A subsequent search revealed two vacuum-sealed bundles of U.S. currency and approximately one pound of marijuana concealed inside a cooler.
Agents seized a total of $138,000 in U.S. currency. Investigators determined the money was proceeds derived from criminal activity, according to the task force.
Further investigation revealed that one of the individuals was a confirmed Tango Blast/Valluco gang member who was reportedly on probation at the time of the arrest.
Both individuals were taken into custody and transported to jail, where they face multiple criminal charges. Authorities have not released the names of the suspects, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force said it remains committed to disrupting criminal organizations operating along the Highway 77 corridor and protecting South Texas communities through proactive interdiction efforts.
