U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents at the Laredo Port of Entry intercepted cocaine valued at $6.8 million, equivalent to 190,000 potentially fatal doses, as per an official statement.
The narcotics were discovered in a truck transporting flowers across the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas, earlier this week.
A CBP officer directed a 2018 T3 International tractor-trailer for further scrutiny. This vehicle was carrying a load of “roses/fresh flowers.”
Through a combination of canine detection and advanced scanning technology, officers uncovered 211 packages, collectively weighing 516.76 pounds, suspected to be cocaine.
Alberto Flores, director of the Laredo Port of Entry, emphasized in the statement that this “significant” bust underscores the unwavering commitment of their officers to protect the borders and communities from the dangers of illegal drug trafficking.
CBP personnel seized 516 pounds of suspected cocaine, worth $6.8 million, cleverly concealed within roses and other floral arrangements at the World Trade Bridge border crossing in Laredo. (CBP)
“The discovery within a shipment of roses demonstrates the vigilance and expertise of our officers,” said Flores.
He added, “Their commitment to the mission reflects the high standards of service CBP upholds, and their actions continue to make a meaningful impact in protecting our nation.”
“Their commitment to the mission reflects the high standards of service CBP upholds, and their actions continue to make a meaningful impact in protecting our nation,” said Flores. (Cheney Orr/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The World Trade International Bridge connects the United States and Mexico over the Rio Grande between Laredo and Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas.
Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating the seizure.
Over the Super Bowl weekend, a fugitive was apprehended at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo.
Over the Super Bowl weekend, a fugitive was apprehended at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo. (Getty Images)
A CBP officer requested a secondary examination for a 64-year-old male, Rito Bueno, matching him to an arrest warrant.
“Bueno has been wanted on an outstanding felony warrant for aggravated sexual assault of a child,” read a press release at the time.
Bueno was transported to Webb County jail in Laredo for adjudication of the warrant.
Fox News Digital reached out to CBP for additional comment.
