U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized 77 pounds of cocaine valued at over $1 million at a Texas port of entry. The seizure took place on Saturday at the Hidalgo Port of Entry. Officers from the Office of Field Operations referred a 2020 Renault Oroch for a secondary inspection.
According to a statement from CBP, a canine inspection indicated the presence of narcotics. A scan using a nonintrusive imaging system revealed anomalies within the vehicle. During a thorough physical examination, CBP officers found 30 packages containing a total of 34.90 kilograms, or 76.94 pounds, of suspected cocaine concealed inside the vehicle.
The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is $1,027,316. Port Director Carlos Rodriguez emphasized the importance of the seizure, stating, "This substantial cocaine seizure reflects the strong dedication of our officers to safeguarding the border, as well as their skillful use of experience and technology."
Both the narcotics and the vehicle were confiscated. Special agents from Homeland Security Investigations have launched a criminal investigation into the incident. While officials have not disclosed the identities of those involved, the investigation remains active and ongoing.