Progreso, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Progreso International Bridge on Friday discovered alleged heroin valued at approximately $1,290,000 concealed within belongings being brought into the country by a Guatemalan citizen.  

On Friday, Aug. 17, 2012 CBP officers at the Progreso International Bridge encountered a man identified as a 46-year-old male citizen of Guatemala and who resides in Dallas, Texas. The pedestrian was referred to secondary for further inspection where CBP officers discovered 13 packages hidden within backpacks and shoes carried by the traveler. The 13 packages contained approximately 5.84 kilograms (12.9 pounds) of alleged heroin.

The alleged heroin from this seizure has an estimated street value of approximately $1,290,000. CBP officers seized the narcotics and turned the man over to U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation.

“A vigilant, multi-layered CBP enforcement posture has proven effective and resulted in the interception of these dangerous narcotics and the arrest of the alleged smuggler. I congratulate our officers for this exceptional seizure and arrest,” said Carlos Rodriguez, CBP Port Director, Progreso/Donna.

Weather permitting, aerial spraying is expected to begin tonight in a northeast section of Dallas County to control mosquitoes and help prevent the spread of West Nile virus. Responding to requests from Dallas-area cities, the Texas Department of State Health Services is directing two planes to begin flying at approximately 10 p.m. The planes will cover about 106,000 acres and will complete the day's spraying by 3 a.m. Spraying may be delayed or halted due to rain or windy conditions.