EL PASO, Texas -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers conducting southbound operations at the Ysleta port of entry seized $171,992 in unreported U.S. currency on July 13.
The seizure was made at approximately 6:30 p.m. while CBP Officers were conducting southbound operations. CBP Officers selected a 23-year-old United States citizen male, driving a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado, for a secondary inspection. During the secondary inspection, CBP Officers discovered nine cash-filled bundles within the dashboard area. A total of $171,992 were seized from the subject.
“CBP Officers did an exceptional job at stopping this bulk cash smuggling attempt,” said Ysleta Port Director Arnoldo Gomez, “Officer training and knowledge of smuggling tactics was at the forefront of this seizure.”
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.