Special to the NEWS
LOS INDIOS, TX—A San Benito man was apprehended at the International Bridge earlier this week, accused of attempting to smuggle illicit contraband into the United States.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers assigned to the Los Indios International Bridge cargo lot intercepted a load of alleged cocaine valued at $297,892 hidden within a tractor-trailer.
“Regardless of the mode of transportation, our officers remain vigilant in the performance of their duties,” said Port Director Tater Ortiz, Brownsville Port of Entry. “Their efforts led to this significant drug seizure, keeping it from reaching our streets and communities.”
The seizure took place on Monday, Aug. 18, at the Los Indios International Bridge, according to a CBP press release.
CBP officers referred a tractor-trailer for a secondary examination after a nonintrusive imaging system scan indicated anomalies, according to the report.
While in the secondary inspection area, with the aid of a canine unit, CBP officers are reported to have discovered nine packages hidden within the vehicle. CBP officers removed the packages, which contained a total of 22.3 pounds of alleged cocaine, according to the report.
CBP officers seized the narcotics along with the vehicle. Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation.
The suspect’s name has not been released. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.
CBP is the nation’s largest law enforcement organization and the world’s first unified border management agency.
The 65,000-plus men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. The federal agency enforces safe, lawful travel and trade and ensures the country’s economic prosperity, by enhancing the nation’s security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust, reads the CBP’s website.
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