In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at El Paso’s Paso Del Norte border crossing recently stopped multiple attempts to smuggle fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana into the United States. Over a span of five days, officers intercepted three fentanyl smuggling attempts, along with one cocaine and one marijuana smuggling attempt, showcasing their relentless vigilance and the effectiveness of their detection methods.
CBP El Paso Port Director Ray Provencio lauded the efforts of the officers, emphasizing their unwavering dedication to preventing illicit drugs from entering the country. “CBP officers remain ever vigilant in their enforcement efforts to prevent illicit drugs from entering our country,” Provencio stated. He highlighted the officers’ adept use of various detection tools and resources that play a crucial role in the successful interception of these dangerous substances, all while facilitating lawful trade and travel.
The series of interceptions began on Feb. 10, with officers seizing 617.6 grams of fentanyl from a female minor, a U.S. citizen, who was attempting to cross the border via pedestrian lanes. The same day, a 31-year-old male U.S. citizen was caught attempting to smuggle 221 grams of fentanyl, concealed within the groin area, as he also arrived via pedestrian lanes.
The efforts to thwart drug smuggling continued on Feb. 13, when a 21-year-old male U.S. citizen was discovered transporting 123.55 pounds of marijuana in the bed of his pickup truck. The drugs were found during a secondary inspection, which included a CBP canine screening and an x-ray examination.
Additionally, on Feb. 15, a 40-year-old female U.S. citizen was intercepted carrying 198.7 grams of fentanyl concealed within her vaginal cavity. That same day, a 33-year-old male Mexican citizen was found with 31.57 pounds of cocaine hidden within his vehicle. These discoveries were made possible through meticulous inspections involving CBP canines and non-intrusive examinations.
The individuals apprehended in these smuggling attempts were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations and/or Texas Department of Public Safety agents for further prosecution and processing. These operations underscore the critical role of CBP officers at the Paso Del Norte border crossing in protecting our communities from the influx of illegal narcotics.
Texas Reporter 