Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Seize Over $1 Million of the Deadly Opioid Fentanyl

LAREDO, Texas – On December 9, 2017, Border Patrol agents seized 35.27 pounds of Fentanyl in Laredo, Texas.  Agents at the Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35 encountered a Honda Pilot at the primary lane.

The driver and passenger were questioned regarding their immigration status and referred to secondary after a Border Patrol canine alerted to the presence of concealed humans and/or narcotics. A further search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of 19 bundles of Fentanyl. The Fentanyl was estimated to have a value of $1,126,400.00. The driver and passenger, who are from Mexico, were arrested. The vehicle, subjects, and narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

“The recent seizure of over 35 pounds of fentanyl at the Laredo North Border Patrol Checkpoint exemplifies the vigilance and dedication to duty exhibited every day by the men and women of the United States Border Patrol. Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous narcotic, responsible for numerous deaths in the United States. Even a few drops coming into contact with the skin can be deadly. Its potency only serves to underscore the magnitude of this seizure and the importance of securing our Nation’s borders,” said Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens from the Laredo Sector Border Patrol.

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.