BROWNSVILLE, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville Port of Entry intercepted a load of alleged cocaine at the Gateway International Bridge. CBP officers discovered the alleged narcotics, valued at approximately $17,000, hidden under the clothing of a woman attempting entry into the United States via the pedestrian lane.
“We maintain our enforcement posture and continue to secure our borders,” said Port Director Petra Horne, Brownsville Port of Entry. “Our officers did an excellent job in keeping these narcotics from entering our country.”
The seizure took place on Monday, Dec. 18, at the Gateway International Bridge when an 18-year-old female Mexican citizen who resides in Matamoros, Mexico, applied for entry into the United States through the pedestrian lane and was referred to CBP secondary for further examination. During the examination, CBP officers discovered a package hidden under the woman’s clothing. CBP officers removed the package, which contained a total of 2.2 pounds of alleged cocaine with an estimated street value of $17,000.
CBP officers seized the narcotics, arrested the traveler, and turned her over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.