MINNEAPOLIS— On Friday March 4, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport seized more than 30 pounds of opium powder discovered in a passenger’s luggage. While conducting examinations of arriving passengers, CBP Officers found substance in the bag of a 35-year-old woman arriving from Laos via Tokyo.
Opium powder discovered in passenger's baggage
During the baggage inspection, CBP Officers noted there was an unusually large amount of dried beverage powder. They opened a packet of what was listed as green tea mix and found a dry, brown powder that tested positive for the presence of opium. In total, 33.5 pounds of the opium was collected and seized. The passenger was arrested and turned over to local authorities for prosecution.
Minneapolis Area Port Director Jennifer De La O praised the efforts of those involved. “Our officers are committed to keeping our nation safe. This interception is an example of their hard work to keep narcotics off the streets."
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.