U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted a significant drug shipment on Monday, seizing over $10.7 million worth of cocaine concealed within a tractor-trailer transporting cabbage. The discovery was made at the Pharr Port of Entry, located near the southern tip of Texas.
A canine inspection and a nonintrusive imaging scan alerted officers to a hidden load inside the trailer. A subsequent physical search revealed 477 packages containing 1,173 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $10,787,500. CBP officials also seized the commercial truck.
"This interception is a powerful reminder that our CBP officers are on duty 24/7, employing every resource to detect and deter those who attempt to exploit our borders," Carlos Rodriguez, Port Director for the Hidalgo Port of Entry, said in a statement.
The seizure highlights the ongoing smuggling threats faced by the country, even with substantial investments in border security and record staffing levels at CBP. The agency reported reaching 21,471 officers, its highest number in 102 years. Despite these efforts, organized smuggling operations continue to attempt to bring illegal drugs, weapons, and individuals into the country.
In April, CBP announced it had prevented a car from crossing the border that was carrying a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, 16 AK rifles, multiple rifle magazines and stocks, and pistol grips. "The threat of illicit narcotics is constant, but so is our vigilance," Rodriguez added.