Nearly 77 pounds of cocaine were seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Hidalgo Port of Entry in Texas during a weekend inspection.
The cocaine, hidden inside a vehicle, is estimated to be worth over $1 million on the street.
The discovery was made on Saturday, July 26, when officers directed a 2020 Renault Oroch for further screening.
A trained K9 unit alerted officials to the vehicle, prompting a deeper examination. Imaging tools confirmed irregularities within the car, leading to a physical search.
Officers found 30 wrapped packages hidden in concealed compartments. The total weight of the narcotics was 34.90 kilograms, or about 76.94 pounds.
The vehicle and drugs were immediately confiscated. Authorities estimate the total street value at approximately $1,027,000.
The driver of the vehicle, whose identity has not been released, is currently under investigation.
Homeland Security Investigations agents are handling the case and will determine if federal charges will be filed.
This is one of several cocaine seizures reported at the Hidalgo crossing in recent months.
In late June, officers intercepted nearly 50 pounds of cocaine concealed in an SUV bound for Mexico.
Similar enforcement actions continue to occur at other ports along the southern U.S. border.
CBP officials say drug inspections rely on a mix of technology, trained animals, and experience.
Officers are regularly trained to detect concealed narcotics and work with federal agencies to pursue further legal action when drugs are discovered.
The seized narcotics have been transferred to the appropriate authorities for evidence processing. Investigators are working to determine the origin and intended destination of the shipment.
CBP maintains active screening operations at all major entry points in Texas to stop the movement of illegal substances across the border.