HOUSTON, Oct. 7 (UPI) — Customs officials in Houston said two people traveling from Peru were arrested when more than 4 pounds of cocaine was found sewn into children’s coats.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials said agents at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston stopped two U.S. citizens traveling from Peru for secondary screening.
The pair, a man and a woman in their early 20s, raised suspicions by providing “several false, inconsistent statements,” officials said.
The couple’s luggage was searched and agents discovered several children’s coats “with unusual weights” and strong odors of vinegar and perfume.
The agents discovered more than 4 pounds of cocaine sewn into the lining of the coats.
The suspects were turned over to state authorities for prosecution.
“This smuggling attempt illustrates the lengths criminals will go to smuggle narcotics into the U.S.,” Houston CBP Port Director Charles Perez said. “It also illustrates the vigilance and attention to detail CBP officers pay when international travelers arrive to the U.S.”
