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  4. CBP Officers Seize $370,000 in Cocaine Hidden in Tractor at World Trade Bridge

CBP Officers Seize $370,000 in Cocaine Hidden in Tractor at World Trade Bridge

Release Date
Wed, 09/30/2015

LAREDO, Texas –U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Laredo Port of Entry this week seized nearly $370,000 in alleged cocaine hidden in a tractor trailer.

Photo of packages containing nearly 48 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Laredo Port of Entry.

Packages containing nearly 48 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Laredo Port of Entry.

“Our CBP officers utilized their training, experience and seized a significant hard narcotics load in the commercial environment,” said Port Director Joseph Misenhelter, Laredo Port of Entry. “This seizure underscores the seriousness of the drug threat our officers face every day.” 

The seizure occurred on Sept. 28 at World Trade Bridge when CBP officers in the secondary express area selected a 2000 Freightliner hauling an empty trailer driven by a 59-year-old Mexican citizen from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico for a spot-check examination. During the examination, CBP officers discovered 20 packages hidden within the tractor cab containing nearly 48 pounds of cocaine. The estimated street value for the narcotics is $370,000. 

CBP officers seized the narcotics, arrested the driver and turned him over to Homeland Security Investigations special agents for further investigation.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021