CBP Officers Seize over $700K in Narcotics at the Hidalgo International Bridge

Packages containing 61 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Hidalgo International Bridge.
Packages containing 61 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Hidalgo International Bridge.

HIDALGO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge intercepted $739,800 worth of alleged cocaine and methamphetamine in two incidents during the same day.

“Our CBP officers prevented over 70 pounds of narcotics worth over $700K from hitting American streets thanks to our diligent officers and the utilization of all available tools and resources,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.

On July 2, 2021, CBP officers assigned to the Hidalgo International Bridge encountered a red Chevrolet Suburban driven by a 57-year-old male U.S. citizen making entry from Mexico. A CBP officer referred the vehicle for further inspection, which included utilizing non-intrusive imaging (NII) equipment and after physically inspecting the vehicle, officers discovered 25 packages of alleged cocaine weighing 61.06 pounds (27.70kg) concealed within the vehicle.

Later that day, CBP officers at the Hidalgo International Bridge encountered a blue Dodge pickup truck driven by a 39-year-old female U.S. citizen making entry from Mexico. A CBP officer referred the vehicle for further inspection. During inspection of the vehicle and personal belongings, CBP officers discovered a total of six packages of alleged methamphetamine weighing 13.44 pounds (6.10kg) hidden within an ice chest.

CBP OFO seized the narcotics and the vehicles, arrested the drivers and the cases remains under investigation by special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI).