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‘Tis the season for massive drug smuggler arrests apparently. At least that’s been the theme for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers down in Texas recently.
The latest in a string of huge drug seizures by CBP agents occurred on Dec. 16 at the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge in Laredo, Texas. It was there that a cargo truck hauling a shipment of water for painting was discovered to also be transporting 757 pounds of meth.
The meth was found when the cargo truck attempted to gain entry into the United States at the Colombia-Solidarity Port of Entry, but was referred for secondary inspection by a Customs and Border Protection officer.
Upon further physical inspection and the use of CBP canines, officers found the 757 pounds of alleged methamphetamine hidden inside of 16 jugs. The narcotics had an estimated street value of $6,962,621.
CBP then seized the jugs of illegal narcotics. Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation.
“This seizure highlights the dedication and vigilance of our officers who work tirelessly to safeguard our borders. Their hard work and keen attention to detail helped prevent dangerous contraband from entering our communities,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “I want to commend the entire team for their commitment to our mission of ensuring public safety and upholding the law.”
Multimillion meth takedown in Laredo: @DFOLaredo @CBP officers seize $6.9M in methamphetamine in cargo truck hauling water for painting. @HSI_SanAntonio is investigating. More: https://t.co/bwAozuir5W pic.twitter.com/X0nX1TKarS
— CBP South Texas (@CBPSouthTexas) December 18, 2024
As previously mentioned, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Texas have been very busy of late.
On Dec. 15 at the Veterans International Bridge in Brownsville, Texas, officers seized 245.50 pounds of alleged cocaine with an estimated street value of approximately $3,336,864.
On Dec. 13, CBP agents at the International Bridge in Hidalgo, Texas seized over $4.2 worth of illegal narcotics.
Shortly before that, CBP officers assigned to the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility in Texas discovered a total of 892 packages containing 838 pounds of meth concealed within a semi-trailer with a total estimated street value of $7,494,558.