CBP Officers Confiscate Over $240K in Unreported Currency at Pharr International Bridge

HI INDIA NEWS DESK
PHARR, TX – Over the weekend, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry intercepted $247,500 in unreported currency concealed within a vehicle during an outbound inspection.

Port Director Carlos Rodriguez emphasized the importance of outbound enforcement operations in curbing unreported exportations of bulk U.S. currency, often linked to illicit activities or transnational criminal organizations.

On May 11, CBP officers at the Pharr International Bridge flagged a white Nissan sedan heading southbound to Mexico for further examination. Upon physical inspection, officers discovered 14 bundles of cash totaling $247,500 hidden within the vehicle.

The currency was seized by CBP officers, and Homeland Security Investigations launched a criminal investigation into the matter.

While it’s not illegal to carry more than $10,000, federal law mandates declaring currency or monetary instruments exceeding this amount to a CBP officer upon entry or exit from the U.S., failing which, or concealing it with the intent to evade reporting requirements, constitutes a federal offense. Failure to declare may lead to currency seizure and/or arrest. Individuals have the option to petition for the return of seized currency, provided they can demonstrate its legitimate source and intended use.