BROWNSVILLE, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Gateway International Bridge intercepted a load of alleged cocaine. CBP officers discovered the narcotics, valued at approximately $308,040, hidden within a white 2013 Kia Rio.
“Our officers are doing an outstanding job in intercepting narcotics from those individuals who are intent on bringing them into the United States,” said Port Director Tater Ortiz, Brownsville Port of Entry. “I commend the efforts of our officers and their commitment to the CBP mission of keeping our borders secure.”
The seizure took place on Monday, Mar. 25, at Gateway International Bridge when a 22-year-old male United States citizen who resides in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, applied for entry into the United States driving a white 2013 Kia Rio. The vehicle was referred to CBP secondary for further examination after a primary inspection. With the aid of a non-intrusive inspection system and canine unit, CBP officers discovered 18 packages hidden within the vehicle. CBP officers removed the packages, which contained a total of 39.95 pounds of alleged cocaine.
The estimated street value of the narcotics from the seizure is approximately $308,040.
CBP officers seized the narcotics along with the vehicle, arrested the driver and turned him over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.
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