Over $6 Million in Cocaine Seized in Hidalgo County During Operation Lone Star

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seized more than $6 million worth of cocaine in Hidalgo County as part of Operation Lone Star.

On March 6, DPS Special Agents and Troopers responded to the Pharr Port of Entry following a report from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regarding a 2019 white International truck-tractor semitrailer suspected of narcotics smuggling.

During a secondary inspection, DPS Special Agents discovered 150 plastic-wrapped bundles of cocaine concealed in the vehicle’s cargo area. The cocaine weighed over 500 pounds and had an estimated street value of $6.8 million.

The driver, identified as 33-year-old Mario Robledo from Mexico, was arrested and charged with manufacturing and delivery of a controlled substance. He was booked into the Hidalgo County Jail. DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division is continuing to investigate the case.