Guns & Ammo Headed to Mexican Cartels Seized in Eagle Pass

EAGLE PASS, Texas – In the border town of Eagle Pass, Texas, the routine outbound operations at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry took a dramatic turn when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers made a startling discovery concealed within a vehicle: a cache of weapons, magazines, and ammunition.

Port Director Pete Beattie, overseeing operations at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry, emphasized the critical role of CBP officers in maintaining security along the border. "Our frontline CBP officers continue to exercise vigilance in the outbound environment," Beattie remarked, highlighting their dedication to duty and experience in conducting inspections. This commitment, he added, was underscored by the significant seizure of weapons and ammunition.

The incident unfolded on Saturday, April 6, at the Camino Real International Bridge, a bustling artery connecting the United States and Mexico. Officers assigned to outbound operations singled out a 2022 Dodge Ram 3500, bound for Mexico, for closer inspection. What seemed like a routine procedure soon escalated into a major discovery.

The vehicle underwent a thorough examination, including scrutiny through a non-intrusive inspection system. However, it was during the physical inspection that CBP officers unearthed the hidden arsenal: 22 weapons, 22 magazines, and a staggering 1,480 rounds of ammunition cunningly concealed within plastic totes.

The seizure of such a significant cache of weaponry highlights the constant vigilance and meticulous attention to detail maintained by CBP OFO officers. Without their keen eyes and expertise, this potentially dangerous arsenal might have slipped through undetected.

In the aftermath of the seizure, CBP OFO officers promptly confiscated the weapons, ammunition, and magazines. Yet, the story doesn't end there. The case was swiftly handed over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents for further investigation, underscoring the collaborative efforts of various agencies in combatting border-related crimes.

As the investigation unfolds, questions linger about the intended destination and purpose of the seized weaponry. Nevertheless, one thing remains clear: the dedication of CBP officers and their unwavering commitment to securing the shared border with Mexico, safeguarding communities on both sides from potential threats.