CBP found the narcotics hidden behind a panel on the aircraft 

Durrant Pate/Contributor

US Customs and Border Protection have announced that agents at the Philadelphia International Airport discovered more than 12 pounds of cocaine hidden behind a panel on an aircraft that arrived from Jamaica last Thursday.

“During a search of the Montego Bay flight, officers discovered a drawstring bag adorned with the face of reggae legend, Bob Marley, concealed behind a cargo hold blowout panel. From that bag, officers extracted five bricks of a white, powdery substance,” the CBP said in a press release issued yesterday.

“Officers tested the substance with a handheld elemental isotope analysis tool and identified it as cocaine hydrochloride,” the release stated. According to CBP, the cocaine had a street value of approximately US$400,000.

No one arrested

No arrests have been made in connection with the discovery but CPB officers turned over the cocaine to Homeland Security Investigations to assist the Border Enforcement Security Task Force that operates at the airport.

According to CBP Acting Area Port Director for Philadelphia, Rene Ortega, “Customs and Border Protection officials conduct aircraft hold inspections of international flights every day, so this cocaine seizure is both rewarding and concerning for us.” 

The CBP reports that it seizes an average of 2,895 pounds of narcotics per day from various U.S. points of entry. 

Customs and Border Protection agents seized more than 12 pounds of cocaine hidden in a Bob Marley drawstring bag that was stashed behind aircraft panel. Photo courtesy of Customs and Border Protection