LAREDO, Texas—At the World Trade Bridge, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers from the Office of Field Operations made a significant marijuana bust this past weekend, intercepting a shipment with a street value exceeding $5.1 million.
Port Director Alberto Flores from the Laredo Port of Entry lauded his team for their outstanding performance. “Our frontline officers displayed remarkable skill in thwarting this attempt to smuggle drugs,” Flores commented. “This substantial seizure underscores the effectiveness of our targeting methods in the cargo sector, which are crucial in curbing the influx of illegal drugs into our communities.”
The interception took place on Sunday, June 23, 2024, when CBP personnel flagged a 2009 International tractor for a detailed review. The vehicle, driven by a 38-year-old Mexican citizen and accompanied by another Mexican national aged 33, was carrying a commercial load. Following a thorough examination by a canine unit and a non-intrusive inspection system, officers discovered 98 packages hidden within the trailer, weighing approximately 2,323.67 pounds and believed to be marijuana.
The drugs were valued at approximately $5,198,328 on the street.
The narcotics, along with the tractor and trailer, were confiscated, and both individuals were detained. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents are now leading an inquiry into this significant drug bust.
