07/11/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/11/2025 16:44
EL PASO, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection Mobile Enforcement Team members performing southbound inspections at the Bridge of the Americas international crossing seized 12 firearms and 28 magazines July 3. Items seized in the encounter also included rifle optics, buttstocks, and a handgun lower receiver. A 33-year-old female Mexican citizen was arrested in the case.
Weapons seized by CBP officers."The intermittent pulse and surge southbound operations that CBP officers perform at area ports will often identify individuals attempting to smuggle weapons, ammunition, unreported currency and other violations," said CBP El Paso Director of Field Operations Hector Mancha. "These important enforcement actions play a significant role in helping keep our border communities safer."
The seizure was made shortly before 8 p.m. when a 2025 Volkswagen Virtus with a single female driver approached the outbound inspection area. CBP officers selected the vehicle for an intensive exam. An x-ray exam of the car revealed anomalies in the doors. CBP officers removed multiple plastic-wrapped guns and firearm components that were hidden in the doors.
CBP officers arrested the driver. She was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations to face charges associated with the failed smuggling attempt.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 65,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. We facilitate safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.