U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers assigned to the Los Indios International Bridge intercepted a load of alleged cocaine valued at approximately $616,389 hidden within a 2011 Buick.
“Our CBP officers work diligently to ensure the safety of our community, and this is an example of their ongoing efforts to protect our borders,” said Port Director Tater Ortiz, Brownsville Port of Entry.
The seizure took place on Tuesday, February 18, at the Los Indios International Bridge when a 51-year-old male United States citizen who resides in Brownsville, Texas, attempted entry into the United States in a 2011 Buick.
The vehicle was referred to CBP secondary for further examination after a primary inspection. While in the secondary inspection area, with the aid of a canine unit and a non-intrusive inspection system (NII), CBP officers discovered 20 packages hidden within the vehicle.
CBP officers removed the packages, which contained a total of 46.16 pounds of alleged cocaine.
The estimated street value of the cocaine is $616,389.
CBP officers seized the narcotics along with the vehicle. Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.
