October 15, 2007  Puerto Rico
Customs agents seize $572,744 hidden airbag and tires, heading to the D.R.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers working the outbound operations at the Ferry terminal intercepted a vehicle with currency concealed in its tires.

A 32-year old male Dominican National along with a 2004 Dodge Durango was inspected by CBP prior to departing on the Caribbean Express to the Dominican Republic. CBP Officer explained currency reporting requirements to the passenger during the interview. When Customs and Border Protection Officers inspected the vehicle they removed and X-rayed the tires and noticed abnormalities in the images. Both front tires were opened and found full with cash. A total of $302,220 was found inside the tires. Further inspection of the vehicle disclosed an additional $270,000 hidden in the airbag compartment area. Total currency seized was $572,744, vehicle was also seized and passenger was placed under arrest.

Source: U.S. Customs/Border Patrol