Border agents have intercepted thousands of illegal items such as drugs, guns, and illicit cash being smuggled into the U.S. this year. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents seized over 273,000 pounds of drugs, nearly 2,000 weapons, and over $22 million in illegal currency. CBP works with other state and federal agencies to ensure these items are handled safely through strict and sometimes lengthy processes.
When drugs are seized at the border, they are immediately tested to identify the substance. The path the drug takes depends on whether there is further investigation and prosecution. If there is an investigation, CBP holds the drugs as evidence, which could be the entire batch or just a sample based on the prosecutor’s request. Seized drugs are destroyed only once the case officially closes, which can take years.
Seized cash that was used for illegal activity goes to the Treasury Forfeiture Fund. The fund is used for various purposes, including compensating victims, covering operating costs, and providing resources to target and intercept financial crimes related to COVID-19. In 2023, over $800 million was in the Treasury Forfeiture Fund.
Weapons and ammunition found to be illegal are forfeited and destroyed by melting, overseen by a CBP team. CBP intercepted more than 3,300 guns and over 547,000 gun parts and ammunition last year. Ninety-five percent of guns intercepted were at the U.S.-Mexico border, reflecting a significant increase from previous years.
Mexican drug cartels are becoming more creative in smuggling drugs into the United States. Border Patrol agents recently seized 218 pounds of liquid methamphetamine hidden inside a vehicle’s gas tank in California. The handling of contraband by CBP involves thorough processes to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
