DETROIT: U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Office of Field Operations seized nearly six pounds of fentanyl at the Fort Street Cargo Facility in Detroit during inspections of inbound international mail. The discovery, aided by a K-9 alert, led to the identification of multiple plastic bags of pills confirmed as fentanyl through subsequent testing. This amount of fentanyl, with the potential to kill over 1.3 million people, represents the largest seizure of its kind for the Port of Detroit and one of the largest inbound fentanyl seizures on the northern border in the past five years.
“I can tell you that the dangers of fentanyl cannot be overstated,” said Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon. “According to the CDC, in 2023, there were over 100,000 drug overdose deaths, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being the main contributors.”
Port Director Devin Chamberlain commended the efforts, stating, “One of CBP’s primary objectives is the prevention of dangerous narcotics such as fentanyl from entering the United States. I’m proud of Detroit’s Express Consignment Team for their diligent inspection that led to the successful interception of this deadly drug.”
The case remains under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations.
HIDALGO, Texas – In a separate incident, CBP officers at the Anzalduas International Bridge intercepted $239,606 worth of alleged cocaine concealed within a vehicle on June 28, 2024. The officers encountered a Ford pickup truck entering from Mexico and referred it for further inspection. Utilizing non-intrusive inspection equipment and a canine team, the officers discovered eight packages of cocaine weighing 17.94 pounds (8.14 kg) hidden within the vehicle.
“Our frontline CBP officers continue to exercise resolute vigilance amid rising pre-holiday traffic, and that mission dedication resulted in this significant cocaine seizure,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “The ability of our officers to utilize training, experience, and technology to zero-in on narcotics loads is formidable and results in criminal consequences for those who would attempt to bring narcotics into this country.”
CBP OFO seized the narcotics and vehicle, and Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.
These seizures highlight CBP’s commitment to intercepting dangerous narcotics and preventing their entry into the United States, ensuring the safety and security of the nation.–News Desk