U.S. border officials recently intercepted a woman attempting to smuggle fentanyl inside a hamburger sandwich across the southern border. The half-ounce pack of fentanyl was found hidden between hamburger patties at the Paso del Norte International Bridge connecting El Paso, Texas, and Juárez, Mexico. The 27-year-old U.S. citizen attempted to conceal the fentanyl using plastic wrap in one of the region’s most unusual contraband smuggling attempts. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported that fentanyl was the leading cause of overdose deaths in America in 2023, with a significant amount seized throughout the year.
In January, the DEA seized over 77 million fentanyl pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl in powder form, a record amount. The CBP reported a series of successful intercepts and arrests in recent weeks, confiscating a total of 62.18 pounds of methamphetamine, 25.27 pounds of fentanyl, 158.64 pounds of marijuana, and $162,539 in illicit currency. Additionally, 44 fugitives were arrested during this time period. These efforts are part of the ongoing commitment of CBP officers to keep communities safe from illegal drugs and criminal activity.
In a separate incident, border officials discovered $10.2 million in narcotics hidden among a shipment of roses inside a refrigerated tractor-trailer. The truck, which was carrying a commercial shipment of cut flowers, was stopped at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas. CBP officers conducted a non-intrusive inspection of the trailer and found hundreds of pounds of alleged narcotics wrapped in bundles amongst the flowers. The suspicious packages contained methamphetamine in both powder and crystal form, as well as cocaine.
These incidents highlight the continued efforts of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to intercept illegal drugs and arrest individuals involved in smuggling activities. The agency emphasized the dedication of CBP officers in maintaining the security and safety of communities along the border. The seizure of fentanyl, methamphetamine, marijuana, and other illicit substances underscores the ongoing challenge posed by drug smuggling and criminal organizations operating near the southern border. It also serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to prevent dangerous substances from entering the country.
The recent cases involving the smuggling of fentanyl in a hamburger sandwich and the concealment of narcotics among a shipment of roses demonstrate the creative tactics used by smugglers to evade detection. The discoveries by border officials highlight the importance of robust security measures and enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking and other criminal activities at the border. The incidents also underscore the critical role played by CBP officers in intercepting illegal substances and arresting individuals involved in smuggling operations, contributing to the overall safety and security of communities along the border.
