CBP seizes over $618K in cocaine at Hidalgo International Bridge

HIDALGO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Hidalgo International Bridge seized over $618,000 in alleged cocaine hidden in a vehicle.  

The agency's news release said on May 14, officers assigned to the bridge referred a 2013 Nissan Rogue coming from Mexico for further inspection. A nonintrusive inspection equipment and a K-9 team, along with a physical inspection, led to the discovery of 21 packages of alleged cocaine with a combined weight of 46.34 pounds concealed within the vehicle. 

“Our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain strict vigilance, even amid the sweltering heat this week, and seized a significant load of cocaine,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “Seizures like these exemplify CBP’s continued commitment to advancing the agency’s border security mission.”

The cocaine had an estimated street value of $618,744.

CBP OFO seized the narcotics and vehicle and turned them over to Texas Department of Public Safety officers, who arrested the driver and began a criminal investigation.