Authorities say the packages contained about 41 pounds of alleged cocaine with an estimated street value of $551,041.
BROWNSVILLE, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized more than half a million dollars’ worth of cocaine earlier this month during an inspection at the Gateway International Bridge, officials said.
The seizure happened Jan. 8 when a 29-year-old woman from Mexico arrived at the port of entry driving a 2008 Chevrolet.
CBP officers referred the vehicle for a secondary inspection, where a canine unit and non-intrusive scanning equipment were used to take a closer look. Officers then discovered multiple packages hidden inside the vehicle.
Authorities say the packages contained about 41 pounds of alleged cocaine with an estimated street value of $551,041.
“As this seizure clearly illustrates, our frontline CBP officers work with diligence as they perform their duties and their efforts led to this significant narcotics interception,” said Brownsville Port Director Tater Ortiz. “Enforcement actions like these help keep our communities safe.”
The drugs and the vehicle were seized, and the driver was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations agents, who have launched a criminal investigation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.