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  4. CBP Officers Seize Marijuana Valued at More Than $560K in Charcoal Shipment at World Trade Bridge

CBP Officers Seize Marijuana Valued at More Than $560K in Charcoal Shipment at World Trade Bridge

Release Date
Wed, 12/02/2015

LAREDO, Texas –U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Laredo Port of Entry over the holiday weekend seized narcotics-laden charcoal that was never meant for a grill.

Boxes containing charcoal bricks from which CBP officers seized 2,804 pounds of marijuana at Laredo Port of Entry

Boxes containing charcoal bricks from which CBP officers seized 2,804 pounds of marijuana at Laredo Port of Entry

“Narcotics can be hidden in a seemingly endless variety of ways and our frontline CBP officers have seen it all,” said Port Director Gregory Alvarez, Laredo Port of Entry. “Their experience, skill and effective use of tools and resources resulted in a unique find of more than $560,000 in marijuana hidden within charcoal.”

The seizure occurred on Nov. 27 at World Trade Bridge when CBP officers referred a 1998 Freightliner hauling a commercial shipment of charcoal for a secondary inspection. During the examination, CBP officers discovered bricks within the charcoal containing a total of 2,804 pounds of alleged marijuana. The estimated street value for the narcotics is $560,674. 

CBP officers seized the narcotics and referred the case to Homeland Security Investigations special agents for further investigation.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021