PHILADELPHIA, PA — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have seized nearly 180 pounds of marijuana at an international shipping facility in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, effectively thwarting attempts to export the drugs to the United Kingdom.
On November 13, officers found 46 kilograms, approximately 101 pounds, of marijuana concealed within 24 export parcels. A second discovery on November 19 uncovered an additional 35.4 kilograms, or about 78 pounds, in 28 parcels. The packages originated from multiple California addresses and were destined for various locations in the UK. Together, the seizures totaled 81.4 kilograms, or approximately 179 pounds, with an estimated street value of $780,000 in the U.S., which could have fetched up to three times more in London due to differences in market demand.
These incidents are part of a broader pattern identified by CBP. Earlier in November, officers seized a combined 513 pounds of marijuana from parcels also headed to the UK. An additional 114 pounds were confiscated on October 22 from the luggage of two women attempting to travel to London, resulting in their arrests on felony narcotics charges.
CBP’s Area Port Director, Cleatus Hunt, emphasized the ongoing efforts to combat illicit smuggling. “These seizures should send a message that exporting marijuana, or any other illicit commodity, is both an illegal endeavor and poses a significant risk of failure,” Hunt stated, highlighting the persistent attempts by smugglers driven by profit motives.
Customs and Border Protection continues to intercept illegal shipments of this nature with the aim to ensure the integrity of international trade and travel security.
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