Customs Agents Seize $3.6 Million of Counterfeit Currency

PEMBINA, N.D. ― U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations officers at the Pembina Port of Entry seized $3.6 million in counterfeit United States currency Friday.

CBP officers working commercial cargo at the Pembina Port Wednesday targeted a commercial shipment described as toy guns.  Inspection of the shipment resulted in the discovery of nine toy guns as well as 36,000 $100 bills.  Inspection of the currency revealed the funds were counterfeit. CBP will destroy the seized counterfeit currency.

“Our officers work extremely hard to protect the United States from a variety of threats,” said Pembina Area Port Director Jason Schmelz.  “Working with other federal partners, CBP officers were able to keep this counterfeit currency from entering into the economy.  To have such a significant seizure on the 19th anniversary of 9/11, shows the commitment all of our officers have, not only today, but every single day they come to work in order to keep our country safe from all threats.”

Stopping the flow of illicit goods is a priority trade issue for CBP. The importation of counterfeit merchandise ― including counterfeit currency ― can damage the U.S. economy. For more information on CBP’s priority trade issue visit: Trade Priorities.

If you have any information regarding suspected fraud or illegal trade activity, please contact CBP through the e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.