Customs officers confiscate nearly 850 pounds of khat in Maryland baggage haul
U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized about 847 pounds of khat hidden in 12 suitcases belonging to two New York travelers arriving from London at Baltimore/Washington International Airport.
Customs officers at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport identified a massive shipment of khat concealed in the luggage of two New York residents arriving from London. Each traveler carried six soft-sided suitcases, and a secondary inspection revealed a combined weight of approximately 847 pounds of the plant, which tests confirmed as khat. The seized material was estimated to be worth about $100,000.
Both individuals were released pending further inquiry. CBP’s Baltimore Area Port Director highlighted that while khat smuggling in commercial shipments is common, transporting such volumes in personal baggage is rare and ineffective. He warned that khat is illegal and poses serious health dangers. The agency also reported seizing 46,000 pounds of khat in the previous fiscal year and nearly 20,000 pounds so far this fiscal year.
Why it matters
The seizure shows ongoing attempts to smuggle large amounts of a controlled stimulant into the U.S., highlighting border security challenges.
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