CBP officers at the Pharr International Bridge stopped an apparently empty tractor‑trailer from Reynosa, Mexico, on April 15 and uncovered 32 packages of suspected cocaine hidden in the trailer floor. The packages weighed more than 83 pounds and were estimated to be worth $1,111,503 on the street. Homeland Security Investigations has opened a criminal probe; DHS officials framed the seizure as part of broader border enforcement gains, citing nationwide drug seizures and claims of sustained restrictions on migrant releases.
More Than $1.1M in Cocaine Found Hidden in 'Empty' Truck at Texas Border
Cocaine worth over $1.1M seized from 'empty' truck at Texas border
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conducting a cargo inspection at the Pharr International Bridge stopped an apparently empty commercial tractor‑trailer arriving from Reynosa, Mexico, on April 15 and discovered a large concealed drug shipment.
Over a million dollars in cocaine was seized at the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge at the U.S.-Mexico border.(Getty Images)
How the Load Was Found
CBP said nonintrusive imaging equipment and a canine team prompted a secondary inspection of the trailer. A physical search revealed 32 packages of suspected cocaine concealed within the trailer floor. The agency reported the combined weight as more than 83 pounds, though earlier statements characterized the load as nearly 100 pounds. CBP estimated the street value of the narcotics at $1,111,503.
The US-Mexico border wall is seen on the outskirts of Eagle Pass, Texas, on Feb. 19, 2026.
Seizure and Investigation
Officers seized the suspected cocaine along with the tractor and trailer. Special agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) have opened a federal criminal investigation to trace the supply chain and identify those responsible for loading and transporting the contraband.
Acting CBP Deputy Commissioner Ron Vitiello said the interception reflected an "effective combination of technological tools and inspections experience," adding that the seizure would prevent the drugs "from entering the U.S. and wreaking further havoc on our communities."
Broader Enforcement Context
The seizure was highlighted by the Department of Homeland Security amid broader claims of strengthened border enforcement. DHS reported that Border Patrol agents have not released a single migrant into the U.S. interior for 11 consecutive months, and noted that nationwide CBP drug seizures in March exceeded 65,000 pounds, including 613 pounds of fentanyl. CBP leadership credited enhanced screening technology, canine teams and policy changes for improved interdiction results.
The investigation into the Pharr seizure remains ongoing as federal agents pursue leads to identify and disrupt the trafficking network behind the concealed packages.
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