Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized a massive cocaine shipment at the Lewiston Bridge crossing between Lewiston, New York, and Canada on Tuesday. After a routine inspection of a northbound tractor‑trailer, agents discovered modifications to the truck’s floor, prompting a K‑9 unit to conduct a sniff search. The dog led officers to 174 vacuum‑sealed packages containing roughly 450 pounds of cocaine, an estimated $6 million street value.
CBP highlights dedication of officers and canine teams
“This significant seizure highlights the exceptional vigilance, advanced training and relentless dedication of our CBP officers and canine teams at the Lewiston Bridge border crossing,” said Sharon Swiatek, acting port director for the Area Port of Buffalo. Swiatek added that CBP’s mission is equally focused on inbound threats and outbound operations, aiming to dismantle transborder criminal networks and protect communities on both sides of the border.
Border enforcement gains under the Trump administration
Since President Trump returned to office at the start of 2025, illegal crossings at the southern border have fallen dramatically, dropping from over 240,000 in October 2024 to just 12,200 in August 2025 – a reduction of more than 94%. The northern border has seen a similar decline, with encounters decreasing from over 17,000 to under 6,100, a 64% drop.
These statistics illustrate the administration’s focus on securing America’s borders while still confronting illicit smuggling attempts. CBP continues to interdict drugs, weapons, and human‑trafficking operations despite the overall reduction in illegal crossings.
Recent CBP successes
In April, CBP prevented a vehicle loaded with a rocket‑propelled grenade launcher, 16 AK‑style rifles, 24 rifle magazines, 16 rifle stocks, 20 pistol grips, and other weapon parts from crossing into Mexico. Acting Deputy Commissioner Ron Vitiello said the seizure protected the good people of Mexico from dangerous weapons.
The recent cocaine bust has been turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Buffalo for further review.
Impact on the community
The seizure sends a clear message to drug traffickers that the United States remains vigilant at every point of entry. Local residents and law‑enforcement partners can take confidence in the continued dedication of CBP officers and their canine companions, who work tirelessly to keep both sides of the border safe.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
