EL PASO, Texas -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers working at the Paso del Norte border crossing seized $360,150 in unreported U.S. currency on July 22.
The seizure occurred at approximately 10:40 a.m. when two United States citizen males arrived from Mexico in a Volkswagen Passat. The primary CBP Officer discovered undeclared currency in a backpack during the inspection, the duo were sent for a secondary inspection. During the secondary inspection, CBP Officers searched the vehicle and discovered more currency inside lunch bags. A total of $360,150 of undeclared currency was seized.
“The Primary CBP Officer was critically important to disrupting this bulk cash smuggling attempt,” said El Paso Port Director Beverly Good, “Officers remain vigilant, up to date with smuggling trends, and are aware that anything may be used to conceal contraband, in this case smugglers used a back pack and lunch bags."
Individuals are permitted to carry any amount of currency or monetary instruments into or out of the U.S. However, if the quantity is $10,000 or higher, the currency must be formally reported to CBP. Failure to declare may result in seizure of the currency and/or arrest. An individual may petition for the return of currency seized by CBP officers, but the petitioner must prove that the source and intended use of the currency was legitimate.
CBP Officers seized the currency and the investigation continues.