HIDALGO – The border security debate has focused on things coming into the U.S., but authorities say money heading south is also crossing the border.

The federal government announced on Friday the indictment of 50-year-old Alberto Gallegos.

The Hidalgo resident was charged with bulk-cash smuggling more than $1 million.

Authorities say he concealed the illicit money in his vehicle compartment. 

Customs and Border Protection spokesperson, Phillip Barrera, says most currency encounters involve U.S. dollars headed to Mexico.

“We focus mainly on arriving travelers and trade as a means to securing our country and our economy. So when resources permit we engage in outbound enforcement,” says Barrera.

He says the illegal currency runs are usually tied to drug operations; drugs go north and payments go south.