CBP Officers at the Hidalgo Port of Entry Seize over $350K in Cocaine

HIDALGO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge seized alleged cocaine valued at $365,160 hidden within a red 1999 Ford Expedition.

“Our officers continue to make outstanding seizures of dangerous drugs,” said Port Director Efrain Solis Jr., Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “Our officers are committed to safeguarding our borders.”

The seizure took place on Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Hidalgo International Bridge when a 27-year-old male Mexican citizen who resides in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico applied for entry into the United States driving a red 1999 Ford Expedition. The driver was referred to CBP secondary for further examination after a primary inspection. After a physical inspection of the vehicle, the use of a non-intrusive imaging inspection (NII) and the assistance of a canine team, officers discovered 20 packages allegedly containing approximately 47.35 pounds of cocaine.

CBP officers seized the narcotics along with the vehicle, arrested the driver and turned him over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.