CBP and partner agencies uncover an attempted wildlife smuggling operation bound for Mexico.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Anzalduas International Bridge in Texas prevented a shipment of 166 live reptiles and arthropods hidden inside a truck headed for Mexico. The discovery occurred during an outbound inspection on October 22, when officers found species including pythons, salamanders, tarantulas, and lizards concealed within the vehicle. The driver was arrested, the vehicle seized, and the animals transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for proper care.
Officials said the incident reflects a broader rise in illegal wildlife trafficking and stressed that transporting live animals across borders requires federal permits, veterinary health certification, and compliance with both U.S. and international wildlife-protection laws such as CITES.
“The smuggling of exotic pets has been on the rise in our area, and we work closely with our partners of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect and preserve these creatures and ensure that importations and exportations of wildlife adhere to all applicable federal requirements,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Commissioner Rodney Scott to be led by the Lord as he heads U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
- For the safety of federal immigration, customs, and border agents as they continue to work without pay during the government shutdown.
Sources: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
