Major Cocaine Seizure at Laredo Port of Entry

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have made a significant drug bust at the Laredo Port of Entry, seizing 190,000 units of cocaine valued at around $6.8 million, as reported in a recent press release.

The drugs were discovered in a truck that was transporting flowers at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas, on Tuesday. CBP personnel referred a 2018 T3 International tractor-trailer for inspection, which was filled with roses and other fresh flowers.

Officers managed to confiscate 211 packages containing a total of 516.76 pounds of cocaine after utilizing canine units and various non-invasive inspection systems.

Alberto Flores, the Director at Laredo Port of Entry, emphasized the importance of this seizure. He stated that it highlights the commitment of personnel in safeguarding borders and communities against illegal drug trafficking. “The discovery within the bulk shipment demonstrates the vigilance and expertise of our personnel,” he added.

Flores further commented on the high standards upheld by CBP, suggesting that their diligent work continues to significantly impact national safety.

The World Trade International Bridge connects the U.S. and Mexico, spanning the Rio Grande between Laredo and Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas. Special agents from the Department of Homeland Security are currently investigating the incident.

In a related note, a recent arrest was made at the Juarez Lincoln Bridge in Laredo during the Super Bowl weekend, where a fugitive was taken into custody. Rito Bueno, a 64-year-old man wanted for an aggravated sexual assault of a child, was apprehended following a secondary examination prompted by a warrant.

Currently, Bueno is being held at the Webb County Jail in Laredo while awaiting further legal proceedings.