CBP Seizes $628K in Cocaine at Laredo Port of Entry
On September 30, 2026, CBP officers at the Laredo Port of Entry arrested a Mexican citizen and a US citizen after finding 47 pounds of cocaine — worth over $628,000 — hidden in their vehicle at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge. For non-citizens, an arrest at the border carries consequences far beyond criminal charges. A single arrest can trigger removal proceedings and derail a pending visa or green card case.
What happened at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge
What if you cross the border and CBP sends you to secondary inspection? On September 30, 2026, that referral led to a major drug bust. CBP officers at the Laredo Port of Entry stopped a 2017 Nissan Rogue at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge. The driver was a 35-year-old Mexican citizen. The passenger was a 30-year-old US citizen.
A canine unit and a nonintrusive imaging system scanned the vehicle. Officers found 18 packages hidden inside. The packages contained 47.06 pounds of cocaine with a street value of $628,458. CBP seized both the drugs and the vehicle.
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Both the driver and the passenger were arrested. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents are now handling the investigation. Port Director Albert Flores said the seizure shows the "dedication and vigilance" of officers at the port. CBP has not released the names of those arrested.
What this means for travelers crossing the border
This case is a law enforcement matter, not an immigration policy change. It does not affect visa holders, green card applicants, or asylum seekers directly. However, any arrest at a port of entry — even as a passenger — can trigger immigration consequences. A non-citizen arrested at the border may face removal proceedings in addition to criminal charges.
What to do
- If you are a non-citizen and you are arrested at a port of entry, do not answer questions without a lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent.
- Contact an immigration attorney immediately. A criminal arrest can affect your visa, green card application, or asylum case — even if you are later found not guilty.
- If you are in removal proceedings after an arrest, you have 30 days to appeal a removal order and 90 days to file a motion to reopen your case.
- Follow official CBP and HSI announcements for updates on this investigation.
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A non-citizen arrested at a port of entry faces two parallel legal tracks: criminal prosecution and immigration removal proceedings. Even a charge — not just a conviction — can be used by DHS to detain and seek removal. If you or someone you know is arrested at the border, contact an immigration attorney before making any statements, because anything said to CBP or HSI can be used in both proceedings. Consulting an attorney within the first 24 hours gives you the best chance to protect your immigration status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-citizen be deported just for being a passenger in a car where drugs are found?
Yes, it is possible. DHS can place a non-citizen in removal proceedings based on an arrest, even without a conviction. The government must still prove its case, but the arrest alone can trigger detention and a hearing before an immigration judge.
How long do I have to appeal a removal order if I am arrested at the border?
You have 30 days from the date of the removal order to file an appeal. You also have 90 days to file a motion to reopen your case if new evidence or circumstances arise. Missing these deadlines makes it much harder to fight removal.
Does a drug arrest at the border affect a pending green card or visa application?
Yes. Drug-related arrests and convictions are among the most serious grounds of inadmissibility under US immigration law. A pending green card or visa application can be denied, and an existing status can be revoked. Lawyers recommend disclosing any arrest to your immigration attorney immediately.
What is HSI and why are they involved in this case?
HSI stands for Homeland Security Investigations. It is the investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. HSI handles major cross-border crimes, including drug trafficking. When CBP makes a large seizure, HSI typically takes over the criminal investigation.