From a semi-truck loaded with hidden drugs to the takedown of a gang-affiliated smuggler and the capture of a convicted sex offender trying to sneak back into the U.S., agents claimed a week of major interdictions across South Texas.

1. COKE UNDER THE CUSHION: Feds Bust Semi-Truck with $3.5M Payload

Border Patrol officials claim they intercepted a major cocaine shipment hidden beneath the mattress of a semi-truck’s sleeper cabin during an inspection at the Falfurrias checkpoint on June 28.

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks alleged in a July 2 post on X that agents discovered 109 pounds of cocaine, which he valued at “NEARLY $3.5M,” after an X-ray scan revealed irregularities in the truck. The driver, identified only as a U.S. citizen, was arrested and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration, according to Banks.

“Agent expertise combined with cutting-edge technology is a true force multiplier,” Banks wrote.

Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez also addressed the seizure in a separate June 30 post, claiming that 40 bundles of cocaine weighing nearly 50 kilograms were uncovered. She included hashtags for cocaine, border security, and the Rio Grande Valley.

2. PAISAS BUST: Gang-Tied Smuggler Nabbed in Hidalgo County

On June 29, Chavez announced what she described as the arrest of a Mexican citizen and confirmed Paisas gang member in Hidalgo County. According to her, the suspect was involved in alien smuggling and had a prior felony conviction.

She credited the arrest to a joint operation between RGV intelligence agents and Hidalgo County Constables Precinct 1, writing, “Strong partnerships => safe communities.”

The photos attached showed close-ups of the suspect’s tattoos, which would presumably confirm his membership in the Paisas gang.

No further details about the suspect’s identity or charges were immediately made available.

3. SEX OFFENDER STOPPED AT BORDER: “Predator” Flagged in RGV

Chief Banks also reported that on June 23, Border Patrol agents stopped Jesus Saavedra-Orozco, a Mexican national and “registered sex offender,” from re-entering the country illegally through Hidalgo, Texas.

According to Banks’ July 1 post, Saavedra-Orozco had previously been sentenced to 18 years in prison for aggravated sexual assault of a child. He further alleged a criminal history that includes theft, burglary of habitation, and possession of a controlled substance.

“He now faces prosecution for felony illegal re-entry (8USC1326),” Banks posted, adding, “This is why border security isn’t an option—it’s a necessity.”

Border authorities did not provide court records or further evidence supporting the full extent of Saavedra-Orozco’s alleged criminal record.

Texas Takedown Weekly is a recurring series from The Dallas Express chronicling the most significant immigration-related arrests and interdictions across the state. You can read last week’s edition here: Texas Takedown Weekly: Border’s Biggest Busts (June 27)