Over 10 million worth of illicit drugs were seized at the U.S.-Mexico border just before Christmas. They were hidden in a shipment of cut flowers.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations officers seized the narcotics at the World Trade Bridge crossing in Laredo, Texas
The seizure occurred on Thursday, Dec. 21 when a CBP officer referred a 2001 Freightliner tractor hauling a utility refrigerated trailer manifesting a shipment of cut flowers for secondary inspection. Following a canine and non-intrusive inspection, CBP officers discovered a total of 164.72 pounds of alleged methamphetamine in powder form, 854.07 pounds of alleged methamphetamine in crystal form, and 165.34 pounds of alleged cocaine within the commodity.
The narcotics combined had a street value of $10,298,520, according to a statement from the CBP.
“CBP is proud of the work our frontline officers do to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our communities,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “This significant seizure is an example of ongoing operational efforts conducted daily to protect our borders.”