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  4. CBP Seizes 910 Pounds of Cocaine inside Container

CBP Seizes 910 Pounds of Cocaine inside Container

Release Date
Sat, 02/27/2016

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized last week 910 pounds (413 Kilos) of cocaine within two pallets, inside a container. The combined estimated value of the seized contraband is $11.5 million.  

Non intrusive x-ray technology is used to inspect containers to detect illegal merchandise.

Non intrusive x-ray technology is used to inspect containers to detect illegal merchandise.

During routine container inspections in the Port of San Juan, CBP Field Operations Officers noticed irregularities in an x-ray of a container revealed irregularities.

The container was opened and a physical inspection of several boxes revealed several brick shaped objects wrapped in plastic bags.  The substance was field tested and reacted positive for cocaine.

“International criminal organizations commonly use sea containers to conceal and move illicit narcotics, however, CBP officers will identify and locate these shipments preventing contraband to enter our country,” stated Keith McFarquhar, Acting Area Port Director for Puerto Rico.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agents assumed custody of the seized contraband for further investigation.

CBP uses sophisticated methods to identify and target potentially high-risk passengers and cargo, including advanced electronic information about every passenger and cargo shipment entering into the U.S. before their arrival, canine inspections and non-intrusive devices.

CBP Office of Field Operations’ dual mission is to facilitate travel in the United States while we secure our borders, our people and our visitors from those that would do us harm like terrorists and terrorist weapons, criminals, and contraband.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021