(Texas Scorecard) – Nearly 70 pounds of methamphetamine and 2.6 pounds of heroin have been seized at the Camino Real International Bridge in Eagle Pass, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The 31 packages of narcotics are worth an estimated $701,701.
A CBP press release explained that after an officer ordered a secondary inspection of a 2006 Chevrolet Express van, CBP officers discovered the narcotics hidden inside the walls of three food ovens—which were on the vehicle’s roof rack.
“Our frontline officers continue to maintain resolute vigilance and that dedication to the mission coupled with an effective use of technology resulted in the interception of a significant amount of narcotics,” said Eagle Pass Port of Entry Director Pete Beattie.
This comes as Border Patrol agents continue to crack down on massive illegal shipments of drugs and narcotics. In February 2024, six tons of methamphetamine were confiscated by Border Patrol agents at the same Eagle Pass port of entry.
The narcotics shipment—valued at $117.1 million—was reportedly the largest amount ever seized in a single law enforcement action. The total weight of the drugs exceeded 13,000 pounds.
Yet, former Texas Land Commissioner candidate and subject matter expert Dr. Jon Spiers warns that the problem might be much larger.
“The Biden-Harris-Mayorkas administration’s border policies have created an open door for transnational crime to flood into the United States,” Dr. Spiers told Texas Scorecard. “The recent drug seizures are a stark reminder of the need for bold action to secure our borders.”
Dr. Spiers stated that during Fiscal Year 2024, CBP has already seen a surge in narcotics confiscations, and seizures of fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana are on track to exceed the numbers from previous years.
“A disturbing reality is hidden in CBP’s data: fewer drug busts but bigger and more lethal shipments,” he noted. “This points to a disturbing trend – cartels are becoming more brazen in their exploitation of our border weaknesses.”
Dr. Spiers also warned that while confiscation of narcotics by the men and women who secure the southwest land border should be celebrated, it is unknown what other dangers have been allowed to permeate the nation as a result of the Biden administration’s inaction.
“What’s the true cost to our communities?” Dr. Spiers concluded.