San Antonio, Texas, February 5, 2026
In a significant drug bust, federal agents in San Antonio seized over 550 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed within a shipment of lettuce. Two suspects have been arrested and face serious charges related to drug trafficking. The operation highlights common tactics used by traffickers to hide illegal substances in legitimate shipments. Authorities continue to combat the risks of drug trafficking and ensure public safety.
San Antonio, Texas
Federal Agents Seize Over 550 Kilograms of Methamphetamine Hidden in Lettuce Shipment; Two Men Arrested
Federal agents in San Antonio have arrested two men after uncovering more than 550 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed within a shipment of lettuce heads. The suspects, Gerardo Pineda-Gallegos and Jose Lopez-Ruiz, have been charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. If convicted, they face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison and fines up to $10 million.
Details of the Operation
The investigation began on December 15, 2025, when Pineda-Gallegos and Lopez-Ruiz were observed at a wholesale produce distribution warehouse in San Antonio. They received large shipments of lettuce, which were later found to contain 998 ball-shaped packages of methamphetamine, totaling 555 kilograms. The drugs were concealed within the lettuce heads to evade detection. A search warrant executed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the San Antonio Police Department’s High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) unit led to the discovery of the narcotics.
Background on Drug Concealment Methods
This case highlights a common tactic used by drug trafficking organizations to smuggle illicit substances: concealing them within legitimate shipments of produce. Similar methods have been employed in other instances, such as the smuggling of methamphetamine hidden inside boxes of cucumbers in Georgia and cocaine concealed within limes in Texas. These strategies aim to exploit the volume and routine inspections of agricultural shipments to transport large quantities of drugs undetected.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentences
Pineda-Gallegos and Lopez-Ruiz have been charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Conviction on this charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, with the possibility of up to life imprisonment, and fines up to $10 million. The case underscores the ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to combat drug trafficking and its associated risks to public safety.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | San Antonio, Texas |
| Suspects | Gerardo Pineda-Gallegos and Jose Lopez-Ruiz |
| Drug Seized | 555 kilograms of methamphetamine |
| Concealment Method | Hidden within lettuce heads |
| Agencies Involved | DEA, FBI, San Antonio Police Department’s HIDTA unit |
| Charges | Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine |
| Potential Sentence | 10 years to life in prison, fines up to $10 million |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the charges against Pineda-Gallegos and Lopez-Ruiz?
They were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
What is the potential sentence if they are convicted?
If convicted, they face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison and fines up to $10 million.
How was the methamphetamine concealed?
The methamphetamine was concealed within the heads of lettuce to evade detection.
What agencies were involved in the investigation?
The investigation involved the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the San Antonio Police Department’s High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) unit.
What is the significance of this case?
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to combat drug trafficking and its associated risks to public safety.
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
