A Homeland Security investigation is underway after a man was found with over three-quarters of a million dollars in cocaine. The drug seizure took place last week at an international bridge in the Rio Grande Valley.
United States Customs and Border Protections officers seized the drugs during a vehicle border crossing inspection at the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzaludas Port of Entry on Thursday, April 25. The illegal narcotics had a total street value over $700,000, according to a news release.
Officials say a 58-year-old Mexican citizen attempted to cross the bridge in a 2008 Dodge when he was directed to a secondary inspection. During the inspection, officers conducted an examination with the help of CBP canines and a non-intrusive inspection system, according to the release.
CBP officers then discovered 24 packages of cocaine within the vehicle, the release shared. The 57 pounds of narcotics had a street value of $761,803. Both the narcotics and the man’s vehicle were seized by CBP. The driver has since been taken into custody by Homeland Security Investigations special agents.
“This significant cocaine seizure is reflective of the strong enforcement posture of our frontline CBP officers and their effectiveness in applying inspections experience and technology,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “Seizures like these exemplify CBP’s commitment to advancing our border security mission while facilitating lawful trade and travel.”
MySA has reached out to CBP and Homeland Security for more information on the arrest.
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