PHARR, TX - Recently, one of fresh produce’s star categories has befallen to the dastardly ways of drug smugglers. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility intercepted 3,159 pounds of alleged marijuana, valued at $632,000, hidden amongst a commercial shipment of fresh broccoli this past weekend.

“This is a substantial amount of narcotics that will not make it into our communities,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.

According to the CBP press release, officers assigned to the cargo facility at the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge on May 16 referred a commercial shipment of fresh broccoli arriving from Mexico for further examination. Upon inspection, officers discovered 378 packages of alleged marijuana.

CBP OFO seized the shipment, the tractor/trailer, and the marijuana. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) continues with the investigation.

We thank those serving at the U.S. CBP OFO for their continued diligence in keeping our fresh produce and those who consume it safe. ANUK will continue to bring the latest from the industry.