Of all the places someone could hypothetically hide drugs, the inside of a motorized wheelchair probably wouldn’t be your first guess. However, that’s the exact hiding spot that was snuffed out by officials at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
Late in September, authorities with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at IAH discovered 12.16 kilograms of cocaine inside a hidden compartment within the seat cushions of a wheelchair.
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Officers called for the wheelchair to be examined by X-rays due to the large cushions attached to its frame, which they described as “unusual.” The examination revealed 11 packages inside the backrest and seat cushions. Further testing on the substance within the packages revealed it to be cocaine.
“CBP remains diligent in our efforts to protect our borders and keep Americans safe,” CBP acting Area Port Director Kayla Gonzales said in a statement. “Cocaine is a deadly, dangerous drug and the trafficking of these poisons leads to increased violence, money laundering, and other criminal activity that threatens our safety and local communities.”
CBP has turned the case over to authorities with Homeland Security. The agency did not say whether or not an arrest has been made in connection with the wheelchair.