Border patrol agents at the Texas-Mexico border made two notable discoveries during vehicle searches last weekend, leading to the arrests of three individuals in separate incidents.

In the first instance, a 20-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman, both U.S. citizens, were attempting to enter the United States via the Anzalduas International Bridge. Their vehicle was selected for a secondary inspection by CBP agents on Sunday. During the subsequent search, officials found a spider monkey concealed within a backpack inside the vehicle. The two individuals were taken into custody, and the monkey was transferred to the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville.

According to CBP officials, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora provides protection for certain monkey species, and their importation is regulated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, monkeys are not permitted to be imported as pets.

On the same day, CBP agents at the Hidalgo International Bridge stopped a 68-year-old Mexican citizen for a secondary inspection. Agents discovered approximately 73 pounds of suspected cocaine hidden within the man's Ford Explorer. Authorities estimate the street value of the alleged narcotics to be around $980,000. The man was taken into custody by Homeland Security, and the cocaine was seized by CBP.

Authorities have not released the identities of the three suspects.

Hidalgo Port Director Carlos Rodriguez stated that the officers' attention to detail and inspection experience led to the interception of an endangered species and a significant narcotics seizure. He emphasized the commitment to preventing the exploitation of protected animals and the spread of animal diseases, as well as the continued commitment to border security.