PHARR, TEXAS – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Pharr International Bridge intercepted a massive shipment of methamphetamine valued at over $14 million, cleverly concealed within a load of vegetables. The discovery was made on April 11, as officers inspected a tractor trailer arriving from Mexico.
During the routine inspection at the international bridge cargo facility, CBP officers referred the 18-wheeler for a secondary examination. Utilizing non-intrusive inspection technology and a canine team, officers uncovered 300 packages of alleged methamphetamine, weighing approximately 1,635 pounds, hidden among bell peppers and cucumbers.
The narcotics and the vehicle were seized, and the case was transferred to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for further inquiry. CARLOS RODRIGUEZ, Port Director, emphasized the agency’s commitment to border security, stating, “Our CBP officers continue to use all tools and resources to safeguard our borders by preventing these harmful narcotics from reaching America’s streets.”
This significant bust follows a notable increase in drug seizures nationwide. In March alone, CBP reported a 24% rise in fentanyl confiscations compared to February, totaling 650 pounds. Overall, seizures of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana surged by 47% in March, with cocaine up by 32% and methamphetamine by 72%.
The Pharr International Bridge seizure underscores the ongoing challenges faced by border security agencies in combating drug trafficking, as cartels employ increasingly sophisticated methods to smuggle illicit substances into the U.S.
For more details, visit [CBP’s Official Report](https://www.cbp.gov).
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**Source:** [Fox News](https://www.foxnews.com)