CINCINNATI— At a local express consignment facility, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati seized a shipment containing a turntable due to anomalies noticed during an x-ray.
On May 1, 2020 CBP Officers inspected a shipment originating from Mexico destined for Prague. The package contained a DJ Pioneer turntable-a rusty, broken turntable. Due to the officer’s experience, and x-ray anomalies, the officers examined the turntable and probed what appeared to be the battery wrapped in black electrical tape with a drill. A white powder was discovered and tested positive for cocaine.
“Criminal actors are under the impression that their shipments are receiving less scrutiny and will very likely continue to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic as a means to further their own agenda,” said Eugene Matho Jr, Acting Area Port Director. “CBP personnel are experiencing an increase of illegal drug seizures in the express cargo environment.”
Cocaine is a dangerous and highly addictive stimulant. Abuse of this drug can lead to paranoia, exhaustion, heart conditions, convulsions, stroke, and death. Cocaine is classified as Schedule II stimulant under the Controlled Substances Act.
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.
For more information about CBP, please click on the attached link.