BROWNSVILLE, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Brownsville Port of Entry intercepted methamphetamine and cocaine in two separate enforcement actions this past weekend that have a combined estimated street value of $272,183.

“Our officers’ experience and expertise were key factors in these seizures.  Their alertness allowed them to intercept these dangerous narcotics,” said Port Director Tater Ortiz, Brownsville Port of Entry.  “I congratulate our officers on their continued efforts and the outstanding job they do every day.”

The first seizure took place on Friday, Mar. 29, at Gateway International Bridge when a 59-year-old female United States citizen who resides in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, attempted entry into the United States through the pedestrian lane and was referred to secondary.  During the secondary inspection, CBP officers discovered two packages hidden within the bag the woman was carrying.  CBP officers removed the packages, which contained a total of 3.9 pounds of alleged methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $78,043.

The second seizure took place on Saturday, Mar. 30, at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge, when CBP officers encountered a 19-year-old male Mexican citizen who resides in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, as the driver of a silver 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. The driver was referred to CBP secondary, for further examination after the primary inspection.  In the secondary inspection area, CBP officers discovered 11 packages hidden within the Volkswagen Jetta.  CBP officers removed the packages, which contained a total of 25.18 pounds of alleged cocaine that carry an estimated street value of $194,140.

CBP officers seized the narcotics along with the vehicle, arrested the travelers, and turned them over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.

Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection

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