September 1, 09

NEWS / Officers at Progreso International Bridge Seize Marijuana Found Hidden in Truck Tires

Progreso, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Progreso International Bridge seized close to 89 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of close to $71,000.

On August 28, CBP officers working at the Progreso International Bridge came in contact with a northbound male traveler, driving a 1997 Chevrolet pickup truck. After the initial primary inspection, the driver and pickup truck were referred to secondary for an intensive examination. In secondary, officers noted discrepancies to the truck’s tires. The vehicle was then referred for a non-intrusive image scan. X-ray images revealed anomalies within the vehicle’s four tires.


While conducting an intensive examination of the vehicle, officers found all four tires equipped with metal containers. The containers were found full of compressed bulk amounts of marijuana. The driver, identified as Marcelino Vasquez, a U.S. citizen, age 60 from Progreso, Texas was arrested on federal drug charges. After his arrest, Vasquez was transferred to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who continue to investigate this failed smuggling attempt.


Pending appearance before a U.S. Magistrate, Vasquez remains incarcerated. CBP officers seized the marijuana and the Chevy pickup truck.


Noel Sanchez, CBP port director, Progreso said, “Our officers continue to intercept drug loads found hidden in vehicle tires.” Sanchez further said, “I commend our officers for a job well done.”

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/08312009_8.xml