SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers seized 163 pounds (74 kilos) of cocaine found inside an inbound container from the Dominican Republic. The estimated value of the seized narcotics is $1.8 million.
On Dec. 5, CBP officers inspected several containers using non-intrusive inspection systems at the Puerto Nuevo Dock, arriving from the Dominican Republic on board the vessel M/V Balao. An inconsistency with one container prompted a more intrusive inspection.
Officers opened the container finding three duffel bags containing 66 bricks. A field test revealed a white powdery substance, which tested positive for the elements of cocaine.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) assumed custody of the contraband for further investigation.
On Dec. 3, CBP Officers seized 212 pounds (96 kilos) of cocaine, worth an estimated $2.4 million, inside a container arriving to the Pan American Dock on board the ferry from the Dominican Republic.
"CBP Officers inspect thousands of containers. We responsible for knowing what is inside, whether it poses a risk to the American people, or to ensure that all proper revenues are collected.” indicated Edwin Cruz, CBP’s San Juan Area Port Director. “We continue to work with the trade community, with programs like the Container Security Initiative and the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism to increase security and safeguard the world's trade industry."
CBP has undertaken a number of initiatives, such as the use of non-intrusive inspection technology, to increase its ability to examine cargo effectively without slowing the flow of trade, which plays a significant part in the U.S. economy.
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