Trucking News · Texas · November 5, 2026

CBP Officers at the Pharr Port of Entry in Texas Seize 1,082 Pounds of Methamphetamine Hidden in a Semi Truck's Load of Leeks, a Case Truckers Crossing the Border Are Watching

By Big Rig Daily Staff

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized more than half a ton of methamphetamine from a semi truck hauling fresh produce at the Pharr Port of Entry in Texas, according to CDLLife, which reported the CBP announcement.

What CBP says happened

Around 8 p.m. on Oct. 30, 2026, a semi truck approached the Pharr Port of Entry seeking entry to McAllen, Texas, the report says. After a canine unit alerted to the truck, "officers discovered cylindrical packages hidden among a shipment of leeks."

CBP seized 1,082.47 pounds of methamphetamine with a street value of $984,063, according to the agency.

What officials said

Jennifer De La O, director of CBP's Laredo Field Operations, said in the announcement that "International drug trafficking presents a direct threat to U.S. national security, public safety and economic stability." She said the agency's Operation Southern Surge "leverages tactical intelligence and coordinated enforcement actions to dismantle the trafficking infrastructure, intercept illicit supply chains, and bolster situational awareness across the southwest border."

What is not known

The report does not name the driver or the carrier, and it does not describe any arrest or charges. It is a seizure announcement, not a finding that any person is guilty of a crime. Big Rig Daily is not speculating about who loaded the packages or who knew about them.

What it means for truckers

For truck drivers who haul produce through southern border crossings, the case is a reminder that canine teams and secondary inspections are part of the job at ports of entry. Big Rig Daily has covered similar cases, including a Mississippi traffic stop this week. Truckers who have questions about a load can raise them with their carrier before reaching the border.

Quick facts

• When: around 8 p.m. Oct. 30, 2026.
• Where: Pharr Port of Entry, Texas, heading to McAllen.
• Load: a shipment of leeks.
• Seized: 1,082.47 pounds of methamphetamine, per CBP.
• Reported street value: $984,063.
• Charges: none described in the report.

FAQ

How was the drug found?

CBP says a canine unit alerted to the truck, and officers found cylindrical packages hidden among the leeks.

Was the truck driver charged?

The report does not say. It describes a seizure only.

What is Operation Southern Surge?

CBP describes it as an effort that uses intelligence and coordinated enforcement against trafficking across the southwest border.

A question for readers

Truckers who run produce through southern ports, how have border inspections changed for you this year?

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