In a recent incident, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) successfully intercepted a significant drug smuggling attempt, seizing 354 pounds of methamphetamine from a pick-up truck entering the United States from Mexico. The operation took place at the Paso Del Norte international crossing between New Mexico and Mexico.
The interception occurred around 4 p.m. on a Saturday when Customs and Border Protection officers were engaged in a pre-primary enforcement operation just south of the inspection booths. According to a press release issued on Monday, officers flagged a Dodge Ram truck driven by a 31-year-old Mexican woman. A drug-sniffing dog detected something suspicious in the truck bed, prompting officers to escort the vehicle to the secondary exam area.
To further investigate, authorities conducted a Z-Portal x-ray scan on the vehicle and noticed irregularities. A subsequent physical examination revealed 161 foil-wrapped bundles concealed beneath the truck bed liner, all of which tested positive for methamphetamine.
The driver was promptly taken into custody by CBP officers and handed over to the Texas Department of Public Safety to face charges related to the failed smuggling attempt. CBP El Paso Director of Field Operation Hector Mancha emphasized the significance of the seizure, stating, “This is an enormous seizure and demonstrates the need for CBP officers to remain vigilant at all times. CBP officers utilized a variety of tools to identify and stop this smuggler.”
You can also read: Road Rage Arrest: Motorist Fires BB Gun, Poses as FBI with Fake Badge
As the investigation unfolds, CBP continues its efforts to combat illicit activities at the border, underscoring the importance of constant vigilance in safeguarding against such smuggling endeavors.
