Nearly $18M Meth Haul Busted Inside Blackberry Shipment at Texas Border

Key Details U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized 1,984 pounds of methamphetamine hidden in a commercial truck at the Pharr International Bridge Cargo Facility on March 23, 2026. The tractor-trailer, traveling from Reynosa, Mexico, declared a shipment of blackberries during secondary inspection. Officers using nonintrusive inspection equipment discovered 862 packages of suspected meth concealed within the fruit. Why It Matters The estimated street value of the drugs totals $17.7 million, making this one of the largest recent seizures at the border crossing. The successful interception demonstrates how smugglers continue attempting to move high-volume drug loads through commercial supply chains. CBP's secondary inspection protocols and detection technology proved critical in stopping the shipment. What Happens Next CBP seized the tractor-trailer, and Homeland Security Investigations opened a criminal investigation into the smuggling operation. Port Director Carlos Rodriguez emphasized that CBP officers remain committed to using available tools and technology to prevent drugs from reaching communities. The case highlights ongoing enforcement efforts at international crossings where legitimate cargo provides cover for contraband.