Suspicious Suitcase (Full Episode) | To Catch a Smuggler | National Geographic

Customs and Border Protection officers intercept a suspicious package containing cocaine concealed within pistons, leading to a controlled delivery and arrest of the intended recipient. Throughout the episode, various officers at airports and border crossings showcase their efforts to detect and intercept smuggled narcotics and agricultural threats, highlighting the ingenuity of smugglers and the importance of vigilance in protecting national security and agriculture.

Cocaine in Pistons

• 00:00:26 A parcel intercepted by Customs and Border Protection contained a controlled substance later confirmed to be cocaine, with New York as the final destination. The cocaine was cleverly hidden within pistons, and officers worked to determine how it was concealed and extracted, posing potential danger due to the possibility of fentanyl contamination.

Passenger Interrogation

• 00:04:21 A passenger arriving from Jamaica seemed evasive and nervous during questioning, causing officers to suspect his travel was not for tourism. He was found to be carrying a suitcase that his mother supposedly provided after his original luggage was damaged, leading to inconsistencies in his story and further inspection of his luggage.

Cargo Inspection

• 00:05:33 Officers at John F. Kennedy International Airport routinely inspect aircraft, cargo, and luggage to detect narcotics, currency, and terrorist-related threats. They employ various methods such as random bag searches, canine units, and examining the weight and feel of items to determine potential contraband.

Controlled Delivery

• 00:11:41 Following the discovery of cocaine in the pistons, a controlled delivery operation was initiated to apprehend the intended recipient in New York. The operation involved multiple teams, undercover agents, and careful planning to ensure safety and minimize risk. It resulted in the seizure of firearms, credit card making equipment, and small scales, suggesting drug dealing at the location.

Agriculture Inspection

• 00:20:53 Agriculture specialists at airports such as LAX are responsible for protecting American agriculture from threats like invasive species and diseases carried in food and plants from international locations. They inspect luggage and goods, scrutinizing items like meat pies, candy, and even insects for potential risks.