Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents seize over $1 million of fentanyl

Border Patrol agents recently seized 35.27 pounds of the opioid Fentanyl worth an estimated $1,126,400.00 at a Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35 in Laredo, Texas.

“Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous narcotic, responsible for numerous deaths in the United States,” Acting Chief Patrol Agent for the Laredo Sector Border Patrol Jason D. Owens said. “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.”

After a Border Patrol canine alerted agents to the presence of concealed humans and/or narcotics, agents questioned the driver and passenger regarding their immigration status and referred them to a secondary inspection.

During the search, officers found 19 bundles of Fentanyl. The driver and passenger, who are from Mexico, were arrested. The subjects, vehicle, and narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

“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,” Owens said.