see also: in June 2008:   CBP in New Orleans Offers Tips for International Air Travelers for Summer Season   CBP Offers Tips for International Air Travelers in Memphis for Summer Season   U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Host San Diego Hiring Event   Baltimore CBP Recovers Stolen Vehicle Being Shipped Overseas   Border Patrol Agents Seize Cocaine, Methamphetamines and Marijuana   Canada, U.S. Sign Arrangement to Align Security Standards for Cross-Border Business   CBP, Texas Strengthen Partnership to Ensure Border Security ...more on cbp.gov:   CBP News Releases   Press Officers on the web:   USAJobs

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Charlotte, N.C. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists at the Charlotte/Douglas (N.C.) International Airport seized 11.2 pounds of hashish, with a street value of approximately $144,000, concealed in wooden clothes hangers.

CBP agriculture specialists conducting routine baggage examinations Wednesday discovered an unusual amount of hangers in a passenger’s luggage. Further examination revealed hashish concealed inside the hangers.

There were three passengers traveling as a group. Upon examination of the other passenger’s baggage, more hashish was discovered concealed within additional clothes hangers and in the rails of three suitcases. Sixteen hangers and three rails were loaded with hashish. The subjects were turned over to local authorities and are currently in custody awaiting prosecution.

CBP Field Operations is responsible for securing our borders at the ports of entry. Atlanta Director Robert Gomez said, “CBP agriculture specialists have the primary duty of protecting the nation’s food supply and agriculture industry from pests and diseases. Their ability to be vigilant and on the lookout for smuggled drugs is highly commendable. This case clearly demonstrates the broad range of responsibilities carried out by CBP agriculture officers with positive results.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.