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Thursday, March 28, 2024

CBP Memphis Seizes Plants Hidden in Teddy Bears

Officers assigned to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Area Port of Memphis seized 16 live succulent plants hidden inside teddy bears at an express consignment facility.

The bears had been shipped in two separate boxes from Mexico, and were seized because they were improperly manifested and undeclared. As a result, the concealed plants and bears were destroyed using steam sterilization.

“Shipping live plants isn’t illegal, but it is important that shippers follow the correct protocols if they want their plants to reach the intended recipient. It may take a little more time, but it will save a lot of money and headache in the long run,” said Michael Neipert, CBP Area Port Director of Memphis. “It probably took longer to hide these plants in teddy bears than it did to just complete the proper forms.”

When exporting live plants, the shipper must complete a phytosanitary certificate, which is an official declaration that the plant or plant material, such as seeds, is free from pests or diseases. This keeps the shipper from spreading or introducing diseases or invasive pests. For information on certificates, contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Plant Protection and Quarantine Permit Unit at (301) 851-2046 or (877) 770-5990. Information can also be found on the USDA website.

Read more at CBP

CBP Memphis Seizes Plants Hidden in Teddy Bears Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Today
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.
Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Todayhttp://www.hstoday.us
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

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