CBP Seizes 44 Handguns, 79 Magazines at Laredo Border Crossing

Weapons and magazines hidden in Corvette intercepted during outbound inspection into Mexico

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized 44 handguns and 79 magazines that were hidden inside a 2021 Chevy Corvette attempting to cross into Mexico via the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge at the Laredo Port of Entry. The driver was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations special agents following a vehicle inspection.

Why it matters

This large weapons seizure at the border highlights the ongoing efforts by CBP to interdict the illegal flow of firearms and prevent them from being trafficked into Mexico, where gun violence remains a major public safety concern. The investigation will aim to determine the origin of the weapons and the driver's intended destination.

The details

During an outbound inspection at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge, CBP officers selected a 2021 Chevy Corvette traveling to Mexico for further inspection. After a non-intrusive scan and canine examination, officers discovered the 44 handguns and 79 magazines hidden inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations agents, and the weapons, magazines, and vehicle were seized.

  • On February 3, 2026, CBP officers at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge were conducting outbound operations.

The players

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The federal agency responsible for border security and facilitating lawful international trade and travel.

Homeland Security Investigations

A division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that conducts criminal investigations.

Alberto Flores

The Port Director at the Laredo Port of Entry.

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What they’re saying

“Significant outbound weapons seizures, like the one realized by our officers at Juarez-Lincoln Bridge, reflect the relentless dedication of our officers to upholding CBP's border security mission and keeping our border communities safe.”

— Alberto Flores, Port Director, Laredo Port of Entry (U.S. Customs and Border Protection)

What’s next

Homeland Security Investigations special agents have initiated a criminal investigation into the seizure to determine the origin of the weapons and the driver's intended destination.

The takeaway

This large weapons seizure at the border underscores the ongoing efforts by CBP to interdict the illegal flow of firearms and prevent them from being trafficked into Mexico, where gun violence remains a major public safety concern. The investigation will aim to uncover the source of the weapons and the driver's plans.