Cocaine Seizure: $1.9M in Drugs Intercepted at South Texas Ports of Entry

Cocaine Seizure: $1.9M in Drugs Intercepted at South Texas Ports of Entry

Federal authorities intercepted nearly $1.9 million worth of cocaine in two major drug busts last Friday at ports of entry in Donna and Rio Grande City, Texas. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), working in coordination with the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, arrested both drivers involved in the smuggling attempts.

The two busts, which occurred just hours apart, netted a total of 92 pounds of cocaine, highlighting the ongoing challenges federal agencies face in securing the border.

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First Bust: 28 Packages Found in Ford Ranger

The first incident occurred at the Donna International Bridge, where CBP officers inspected a 2002 Ford Ranger entering from Mexico. Upon a closer examination, agents discovered 28 packages hidden inside the vehicle, weighing a total of 74 pounds.

CBP officials confirmed the drugs tested positive for cocaine. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is over $1.5 million.

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Second Seizure: Cocaine Found in Semitrailer

In a separate incident, officers at the Rio Grande City International Bridge conducted an inspection of a semitrailer attempting to cross into Texas. Authorities discovered 31 packages concealed within the vehicle, weighing approximately 64 pounds.

The cocaine, with an estimated value of $400,000, was confiscated, and the driver was taken into custody by members of the Starr County HIDTA Task Force.

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HIDTA Task Force Leads Arrests

Both drivers were immediately arrested by the Starr County High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, a multi-agency coalition that supports federal, state, and local efforts to dismantle organized drug trafficking operations in the region.

“Seizures like these are a testament to the vigilance and expertise of our officers,” a CBP spokesperson stated. “They continue to play a critical role in keeping dangerous drugs out of our communities.”

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A Continuing Battle at the Border

South Texas remains a high-priority zone for narcotics enforcement due to its strategic location along key smuggling corridors. The Donna and Rio Grande City international bridges are among the busiest in the region, and drug traffickers often attempt to exploit commercial and passenger lanes to move illegal substances into the U.S.

These recent seizures serve as a reminder of the constant pressure law enforcement faces in combating transnational criminal organizations.

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Official Agencies and Resources

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Newsroom
• HIDTA Program Overview – ONDCP
• Starr County Sheriff’s Office
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security