A 43-year-old U.S. citizen was caught smuggling over 700 pounds of Mexican bologna and more than 280 boxes of undeclared prescription medications through the Southern Border at the Presidio Port of Entry in Texas. She was driving a 2023 GMC Yukon and had only declared a cooked meal during the initial inspection. CBP agriculture specialists found several suitcases in the vehicle that appeared heavier than expected, leading to the discovery of the illegal meat. Mexican bologna is prohibited due to the potential introduction of foreign animal diseases to the U.S. pork industry. The woman received a $1,000 civil penalty in connection with the smuggling incident.
CBP officials stress the importance of travelers educating themselves on what products are allowed to be legally entered from abroad. Even if items are believed to be allowed, travelers should still declare all items transported to the U.S. to avoid fines and penalties. Pork products, such as Mexican bologna, have the potential to introduce foreign animal diseases that can have devastating effects on the U.S. economy and agriculture industry. In addition to the illegal meat, over 280 boxes of undeclared medication, including controlled substances like Tramadol, were found hidden inside the vehicle. The bologna was seized and destroyed by CBP agriculture specialists.
The woman was also found to have more than $7,600 in concealed currency, which was seized along with the medication and vehicle. The smuggling incident highlights the ongoing efforts of CBP officers to prevent the illegal importation of prohibited goods and substances through the Southern Border. The woman was issued a $1,000 civil penalty as a consequence of her actions. CBP officers stress the importance of compliance with customs regulations to avoid penalties and protect the U.S. economy and agriculture industry from potential risks associated with the illegal importation of prohibited products.
The seizure of over 700 pounds of Mexican bologna and more than 280 boxes of undeclared medication underscores the complexities and challenges faced by CBP officers in safeguarding the Southern Border. The discovery of prohibited goods and substances highlights the ongoing efforts of CBP to prevent the introduction of foreign animal diseases and controlled substances into the U.S. The woman’s attempt to smuggle illegal meat and medication serves as a reminder to travelers to be aware of customs regulations and declare all items being transported to avoid fines and penalties. CBP officials continue to emphasize the importance of compliance with customs regulations to protect the U.S. economy and agriculture industry from potential threats associated with illegal smuggling activities.
The enforcement actions taken by CBP officers at the Presidio Port of Entry demonstrate the agency’s commitment to upholding customs regulations and safeguarding the U.S. border from illegal activities. The seizure of prohibited Mexican bologna and undeclared medication highlights the vigilance of CBP officers in detecting and preventing smuggling attempts. The woman’s smuggling attempt resulted in the confiscation of the illegal goods, medication, vehicle, and concealed currency, as well as a civil penalty. CBP officials continue to educate travelers on the importance of compliance with customs regulations to protect the U.S. economy and agriculture industry from potential risks associated with illegal smuggling.
