$761K in cocaine seized at Hidalgo Port of Entry, CPB say

PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry seized over $761,000 in cocaine in a single stop. 

CBP officers discovered 24 packages of cocaine worth $761,803 in a vehicle at the Hidalgo Port of Entry.

According to CBP, the seizure occurred April 25 at the Pharr International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 2008 Dodge driven by a 58-year-old Mexican citizen for secondary inspection.

CBP officers examined the vehicle with a non-intrusive inspection system along with CBP K-9 officers.

Officers discovered 24 packages containing a total of 57 pounds of alleged cocaine within the vehicle. The narcotics had a street value of $761,803.

“This significant cocaine seizure is reflective of the strong enforcement posture of our frontline CBP officers and their effectiveness in applying inspection experience and technology,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “Seizures like these exemplify CBP’s commitment to advancing our border security mission while facilitating lawful trade and travel.”

The narcotics and vehicle were seized by CBP. HSI special agents arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.