Border Patrol Seizes $2.3 Million in Pot, 3 Vehicles

Tucson, Ariz. – More than 4,700 pounds of marijuana valued at about $2.3 million was seized yesterday by Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents in two separate incidents.

In the first incident, Ajo Station agents spotted suspicious activity near State Route 85 south of Why, Ariz. When agents searched the area, they discovered two pick-up trucks loaded with a combined 207 bundles of marijuana weighing more than 4,400 pounds. Both vehicles, reported stolen, were turned over to the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The marijuana, valued at more than $2.2 million, will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Later that evening, agents using thermal imaging technology observed a group of suspected drug smugglers loading marijuana into a vehicle northwest of Douglas, Ariz. Agents attempted an interdiction, but when they activated their emergency lights, the vehicle fled the scene. The Douglas Police Department took the lead in the pursuit. Two subjects were seen exiting the vehicle but one was quickly apprehended. The other is believed to have fled into Mexico. Inside the vehicle, agents discovered seven bundles of marijuana weighing 326 pounds with an estimated value of $163,000. The marijuana is pending transfer to the DEA. The subject will be presented for federal prosecution.

Customs and Border Protection regularly adapts and shifts resources to combat the flow of drugs into the United States. Coordination between multiple law enforcement agencies makes it difficult for transnational criminal organizations to operate with impunity.

Since launching the Southwest Border Initiative in March 2009, the Department of Homeland Security has made significant investments toward establishing a secure, safe border environment to improve the quality of life throughout Arizona communities.

Customs and Border Protection appreciates assistance from the community. Report suspicious activity by calling the Border Patrol toll free (877) 872-7435. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.