CBP Officers Discover $6.6 Million Worth of Hard Narcotics in Avocado Shipment
PHARR, TX - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agents at the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge cargo facility have announced that they recently uncovered a load of drugs concealed within a shipment of avocados arriving from Mexico. The estimated street value of the drugs is around $6,622,000.
“Significant narcotics interdiction enforcement actions like these have direct and immediate impact on the smuggling organizations who operate in our area,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Port of Hidalgo/Pharr/ Anzalduas. “CBP Field Operations maintains a robust enforcement posture while continuing to facilitate and process legitimate trade and travel, which is a delicate balance.”
According to a press release, within the tractor/trailer hauling the avocados, agents discovered 48 packages of alleged methamphetamine weighing 326 pounds (148 kg) as well as one package of what is believed to be heroin weighing 2.41 pounds (1.09 kg).
The agents utilized non-intrusive imaging to inspect the truck and its contents before unveiling the suspected drugs. Since then, both the narcotics and the driver of the truck have been detained by Agents with Homeland Security Investigations for further inquiries.
We thank agents who work to keep our produce safe from these illicit substances and activities. As more information becomes available, AndNowUKnow will continue to report.
