CINCINNATI – Federal agents at the port of Cincinnati seized methamphetamine that was hidden inside a pair of clay sculptures, authorities said.
According to a news release, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized the sculptures on Oct. 29 while conducting a random search.
Agents were examining incoming freight from Canada when they selected a five-pound shipment described as “2X Sculptures, 1X Family Photo” on its invoice, the release stated.
While conducting an X-ray inspection, agents noticed inconsistencies in the density of two clay figurines. Agents drilled a small hole in each sculpture and discovered a white powder that tested positive for methamphetamine.
The shipment was destined for a private residence in Auckland, New Zealand, according to the CBP release.
“This is just another great example of how CBP works with our international partners throughout the world to combat illegal narcotics,” LaFonda Sutton-Burke, director of the CBP field office in Chicago, said in a statement. “In Cincinnati, the officers work around the clock to ensure the safety of Americans and people around the world.”
