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CBP Seizes $10.3 Million in Meth Hidden in Lettuce at Pharr International Bridge

Officers used nonintrusive scans to flag the load before a search uncovered about 500 packages weighing 1,153 pounds.

Overview

  • CBP said the truck arriving from Mexico was referred for secondary inspection at the Pharr International Bridge on Nov. 21.
  • Nonintrusive inspection technology detected irregularities in a commercial lettuce shipment, prompting a physical examination.
  • Officers found roughly 500 packages of suspected methamphetamine valued at about $10.3 million concealed in produce boxes.
  • CBP’s Office of Field Operations seized the narcotics and the vehicle, and Homeland Security Investigations opened a criminal inquiry.
  • Officials framed the case within a broader pattern of drugs hidden in produce such as watermelons, celery and squash as federal agencies also pursue maritime interdiction efforts.