CBP Seizes $1.1M in Cocaine at Texas Border Crossing
If you or someone you know is detained at a U.S. port of entry, ask for a lawyer before answering questions beyond basic identification. Non-citizens should contact an immigration lawyer right away, because a criminal arrest can affect a green card application, visa, or other immigration benefits. Keep any documents related to your immigration case in a safe place you can access quickly.
What Happened at the Progreso Port of Entry
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized more than $1.1 million worth of cocaine at the Progreso International Bridge in Texas over Memorial Day weekend. The seizure happened on May 23, 2026, during what officers described as heavy holiday traffic.
A CBP officer stopped a 2026 GMC Sierra pickup truck and sent it to a secondary inspection area. The driver was a 22-year-old male U.S. citizen. Officers used a nonintrusive inspection system — a type of scanning technology that can detect hidden items without taking a vehicle apart — and then searched the truck by hand. They found 33 packages holding 88 pounds of what they believe is cocaine. The drugs were hidden inside the vehicle and had an estimated street value of $1,175,085.
Immigration Policy Checklist — Free
DACA, TPS, Executive Orders: what to monitor
CBP officers kept the drugs and the truck. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers arrested the driver and opened a criminal investigation. Port Director Michael Martinez said officers "maintained strict vigilance" despite the busy weekend traffic.
What This Means for People Crossing the Border
This case is a reminder that CBP uses both technology and physical searches at ports of entry. Anyone crossing the border — including U.S. citizens — can be sent to secondary inspection at any time. Officers do not need a specific reason to refer someone for a more detailed check.
What to Do If You Cross a U.S. Port of Entry
- Always tell the truth to CBP officers. Lying to a federal officer is a serious crime, even if you are not carrying anything illegal.
- If you are sent to secondary inspection, you have the right to remain calm and ask what is happening. You do not have to answer questions beyond basic identification, but refusing to cooperate can cause longer delays.
- If you are arrested at a port of entry, lawyers recommend asking for an attorney before answering any questions. You have the right to legal representation in criminal proceedings.
- If you are not a U.S. citizen and you are arrested or detained at the border, an arrest can affect your immigration status, including any pending green card application or visa. Contact an immigration lawyer as soon as possible.