HOUSTON – Ever wondered what comes through one of the busiest airports in the country?
At George Bush Intercontinental Airport, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents are constantly seizing illegal drugs, undeclared money, and prohibited food and plants.
Recently, KPRC 2′s Bill Barajas spent a day with these dedicated agents to see their operations firsthand.
CBP agents, along with their canine partners, work tirelessly amidst the non-stop activity of Houston’s largest airport. These specially trained dogs are part of the Beagle Brigade, detecting banned meats, vegetables and plants.
“We are very concerned about animal diseases like African swine fever, which can be found in many swine products,” one agent said.
The CBP team is accustomed to surprising discoveries.
Thomas McCoy, a supervisory agriculture specialist, described encounters with items like a llama fetus and rancid meat.
In addition to unusual food items, drugs and money are top priorities for CBP agents.
Supervisory CBP officer Raymond Bell recounted a significant seizure involving marijuana concealed in bongo drums. Bell said it was over 40 pounds of marijuana.
CBP agents also recently intercepted 40 kilograms of cocaine hidden within the seat cushions of a motorized wheelchair.
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“The reality is, we’re constantly adjusting and reacting,” Bell explained.
CBP prides itself on being the first and last line of defense before individuals enter the city. While their daily tasks may vary, their mission remains steadfast: to keep dangerous substances, illegal money, and criminals off the streets.