SAN JUAN: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers stopped an illegal exportation of currency when officers searched a cargo container intended to be shipped to the Dominican Republic on board the Caribbean Fantasy Ferry this past week.(File Photo) CBP uses scanning technology to inspect containers
Utilizing high-tech equipment, CBP officers examining outbound containers being loaded to the Caribbean Ferry selected some for further inspection. During the additional inspection, officers discovered $518,980 USD, intended to be smuggled out of the United States.
“Customs and Border Protection remains committed to strengthening our borders.” said Keith McFarquhar, acting San Juan Area Port Director. “The currency seized is not only money lost by organizations that finance drug trafficking and other illegal activity. It is currency that could also supply the weapons and the means for these organizations to disrupt governments and pose threats to our nation.”
CBP officers seized the hidden contraband. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations special agents will continue the investigation. Local and federal law enforcement authorities in Puerto Rico will continue to work together to disrupt criminal activity in the island.
