00:00Today I'm here to discuss Operation Southern Surge, an intelligence-driven enforcement initiative that is strengthening our ability to intercept
00:08dangerous narcotics, weapons, and illicit currency before they reach our communities.
00:13Operation Southern Surge brings additional CBP officers, specialized Office of Field Operations and Border Patrol K-9 teams, advanced screening
00:23technology, and targeted inspections to the ports of Laredo, Roma, Hidalgo, and Brownsville.
00:30This effort is focused, agile, and driven by intelligence.
00:34Through coordinated pulse and surge operations, we are increasing our inspection capacity, disrupting cross-border smuggling networks, and reinforcing the
00:44security of our border.
00:45Since October 19, Operation Southern Surge has resulted in the seizure of more than 1,600 pounds of narcotics, 15
00:54firearms, more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition, and over $365,000 in illicit currency.
01:01These enforcement actions have also led to 89 arrests.
01:05Those numbers represent more than enforcement statistics.
01:10They reflect the commitment of CBP personnel and our law enforcement partners to stop dangerous drugs, weapons, and criminal proceeds
01:20from entering our communities.
01:21As an example, a great success over the weekend at the Hidalgo Port of Entry, after a canine alert, officers
01:29discovered cylindrical packages hidden among a shipment of leaks.
01:33A total of 909 packages were discovered and tested positive for methamphetamine.
01:39The total weight of the narcotics was 1,082.47 pounds, with a street value of more than $900,000.
01:47Here at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge, CBP officers recently referred a vehicle for secondary inspection.
01:54Using non-intrusive inspection technology and their training and experience, officers discovered 49.3 pounds of cocaine concealed in 20
02:04packages.
02:04The cocaine, with an estimated value of more than $290,000, was seized.
02:10The driver was arrested and Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents Assume Responsibility for the Investigation.
02:19This case demonstrates the importance of intelligence-led enforcement and the value of close coordination among our partners.
02:28Operation Southern Surge is being carried out in coordination with the Homeland Security Task Force,
02:33U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Attorney's Office,
02:42and our federal, state, and local enforcement partners.
02:45Transnational criminal organizations continue to threaten our national security, public safety, and economic interests
02:53through the production and movement and distribution of dangerous drugs.
03:20We will continue to strengthen border security, enforce our laws, and protect the American people.
03:27A safer America, together.
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