U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted over 50 pounds of sea Cucumbers at the Calexico East Port of Entry.

On August 21, 2024, a55-year-old woman approached the border and during Ana inspection, a CBP officer opened the trunk and found dried sea cucumbers. In secondary inspection, a CBP agriculture specialist confirmed that there was nearly 54 pounds of the sea creatures. 

Sea cucumbers are subject to strict regulations to prevent over-harvesting and ensure sustainability of Marie ecosystems. Smuggling the large quantity of sea cucumbers violates the regulations and disrupts environmental conservation efforts. The sea cucumbers were seized.