PHARR, Texas — The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at Pharr International Bridge seized more than $17.4 million in methamphetamine in a single enforcement action.
“Our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain a robust enforcement posture in the cargo environment and by effectively utilizing their training, experience, technology and canines they prevented a massive load of methamphetamine from wreaking havoc on our streets,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “This seizure underscores the seriousness of the drug threat we face on a daily basis and the resolve of our officers to keep our communities safe.”
According to a CBP press release, the seizure occurred on Sept. 28 at the Pharr International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a tractor trailer hauling a shipment of coconuts for secondary inspection. CBP officers conducted a secondary examination that included utilization of a non-intrusive inspection system and CBP canines. Upon further physical examination, CBP officers discovered 378 packages containing a total of nearly 1,950 pounds of alleged methamphetamine hidden within the trailer. The narcotics had an estimated street value of $17,431,726.
The release noted that the CBP seized the narcotics and tractor trailer. Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
