A staggering amount of methamphetamine, valued at over $3 million, was seized in a remarkable drug trafficking operation at the Brownsville Port of Entry over the weekend. Border agents put a stop to the scheme, showcasing their dedication to combating illegal drug trade.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers apprehended a 2006 Ford vehicle after it was selected for further examination during the primary inspection, as stated in a release from the agency’s Field Operation.
The officers became suspicious of the vehicle and its potential illegal cargo, prompting them to deploy canine units and specialized non-intrusive inspection systems (NII) for further investigation. Thanks to the assistance of the dogs and NII, they successfully uncovered a staggering 355.36 pounds of methamphetamine.
The estimated street value of such a haul, if it were to reach its destination, would be approximately $3,267,643.
Along the Texas border, authorities employ various methods to inspect vehicles for illegal substances.
One commonly used strategy involves the use of NII technology. This advanced technology enables border agents to detect contraband and identify materials that may pose nuclear and radiological threats, as stated on cbp.gov.
NII technology comprises of large machines that provide a hands-free inspection of the contents in spacious containers or vehicles. It’s similar to the experience at an airport security checkpoint when your bags are selected for further examination. (Why does it always happen to me?)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection utilizes canine units as another method to inspect vehicles entering the country. These dogs are trained in various disciplines, as stated on cbp.gov.
Canines are utilized in three main areas, which include:
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- Concealed Human and Narcotic Detection
- These dogs are taught to sniff out marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, hashish, and ecstacy
- Search and Rescue
- Tracking/Trailing
- Concealed Human and Narcotic Detection
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- These dogs are taught to sniff out marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, hashish, and ecstacy
U.S. Customs and Border Protection captures illegal narcotics and other substances on a daily basis. However, the following incident demonstrates that some seizures are significantly larger than others.