HIDALGO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at two Texas ports of entry made significant drug seizures over the weekend, confiscating more than $1 million worth of illicit narcotics in two separate enforcement actions. The combined efforts at the Hidalgo and Eagle Pass Ports of Entry underscore CBP’s dedication to curbing the flow of dangerous drugs into the United States.
On October 13, at the International Bridge in Hidalgo, Texas, CBP officers intercepted over $681,000 worth of narcotics in a single operation. A CBP officer referred a 2012 Dodge Journey, driven by a 35-year-old male Mexican citizen, for a secondary inspection. Upon further examination, CBP officers discovered packages containing 51 pounds of alleged cocaine hidden within the vehicle. The narcotics were valued at approximately $681,737. The vehicle and drugs were seized, and Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested the driver to initiate a criminal investigation.
“This is a significant seizure and reflects the dedication of our officers to advancing our border security mission while facilitating lawful trade and travel,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez of the Hidalgo Port of Entry.
Meanwhile, at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry, CBP officers conducted another major drug bust on October 12. During a routine inspection at the Eagle Pass International Bridge, a CBP officer referred a 2010 Dodge Journey, driven by a 26-year-old U.S. citizen, for secondary inspection. Using a CBP canine and non-intrusive inspection technology, officers discovered 45 pounds of alleged methamphetamine concealed within the vehicle’s rocker panels. The drugs had an estimated street value of $414,765.
CBP officers seized the methamphetamine and the vehicle, and the Maverick County Sheriff’s Office arrested the driver. A criminal investigation is currently underway.
“This seizure highlights our officers’ commitment to interdicting illicit narcotics,” said Pete Beattie, Port Director of the Eagle Pass Port of Entry. “Eagle Pass CBP officers continue to maintain a robust enforcement posture, successfully disrupting cross-border drug smuggling attempts.”
These back-to-back seizures demonstrate the ongoing efforts by CBP to disrupt the flow of narcotics into the U.S. through Texas border crossings. The successful operations serve as a reminder of the vigilance and expertise required to combat drug smuggling while maintaining secure and lawful trade and travel between the U.S. and its neighbors.
CBP will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies such as Homeland Security Investigations and local authorities to ensure that smugglers are held accountable for their attempts to introduce dangerous drugs into the country.–News Desk