$1 Million in Cocaine Seized at San Luis Port of Entry

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

San Luis, A.Z. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the San Luis port of entry seized more than $1 million in cocaine last Thursday, arresting one person in connection with the failed smuggling attempt.

“This interception demonstrates the dedication of the officers to our mission,” said Port Director William K. Brooks, “and demonstrates their ability to detect contraband and smugglers based on their observations and using all available tools at their disposal”.

The narcotics seizure happened at about 9:30 am on March 27, when a CBP officer screening incoming vehicles became suspicious of the driver of a 2003 Ford Windstar and sent her in for inspection. Based on her answers to routine questions and discrepancies with the vehicle, officers searched the minivan thoroughly and discovered a compartment built into the firewall area of the vehicle. When officers opened the compartment, they discovered packages of illicit drugs hidden inside.

The officers removed a total of 24 packages of cocaine, weighing more than 63 pounds. The drugs were seized along with the vehicle, and the driver, a 21-year-old US citizen, was arrested and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.

Estimated street value of the cocaine is more than $1 million.