http://www.kare11.com/mb/news/woman-busted-with-30-lbs-of-opium-at-msp/74018880
Federal authorities confiscated more than 30 pounds of opium powder from a passenger flying into MSP International Airport from Laos March 4.
MINNEAPOLIS - A woman is facing smuggling charges after federal authorities say they found 30 pounds of opium powder in her luggage at MSP International Airport.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers found the drugs March 4 after the suspect flew in from Laos via Tokyo. During a check of the 35-year-old woman's baggage inspectors noticed an unusually large amount of dry beverage powder in a suitcase. They opened a packet of what was listed as green tea and instead found a light brown powder that tested positive for opium. In total, 33.5 pounds of opium powder was confiscated.
The woman was arrested and turned over to local authorities for prosecution.
“Our officers are committed to keeping our nation safe," said Minneapolis Area Port Director Jennifer De La O. "This interception is an example of their hard work to keep narcotics off the streets."
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products.
On Friday March 4, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport seized more than 30 pounds of opium powder discovered in a passenger’s luggage. While conducting examinations of arriving passengers, CBP Officers found substance in the bag of a 35-year-old woman arriving from Laos via Tokyo.
During the baggage inspection, CBP Officers noted there was an unusually large amount of dried beverage powder. They opened a packet of what was listed as green tea mix and found a dry, brown powder that tested positive for the presence of opium. In total, 33.5 pounds of the opium was collected and seized. The passenger was arrested and turned over to local authorities for prosecution.
Minneapolis Area Port Director Jennifer De La O praised the efforts of those involved. “Our officers are committed to keeping our nation safe. This interception is an example of their hard work to keep narcotics off the streets."
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.