Tucson, Ariz. –Border Patrol agents assigned to the Tucson Sector, a component of the Joint Field Command-Arizona, recovered a stolen vehicle and seized more than 2,200 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $1.1 million, as well as 1.6 pounds of heroin valued at approximately $21,760.
Casa Grande Station agents assigned to the Motorbike Unit were tracking a group of suspected drug smugglers Monday when they discovered five bundles of marijuana weighing 342 pounds concealed in heavy brush. While searching the area, agents also found a backpack containing a 1.6 pound package of heroin. The marijuana and heroin, with a combined value of almost $193,000 were transported to the Casa Grande Station for processing.
In another incident Monday, Casa Grande agents tracking a vehicle traveling off-road in the West Desert discovered the vehicle abandoned and concealed in brush. The vehicle contained 80 bundles of marijuana weighing 1,895 pounds and worth approximately $947,500. The marijuana and vehicle, reported stolen out of Litchfield, Ariz., were transported to the station for processing.
Smuggling contraband, either drugs or humans, is a federal crime. Smugglers frequently choose to abandon their loads rather than risk apprehension and the associated penalties.
CBP announced the JFC-AZ in February 2011 as an organizational realignment that brings together the U.S. Border Patrol, Air and Marine, and Field Operations under a unified command structure. The JFC-AZ integrates CBP’s border security, commercial enforcement, and trade facilitation missions to more effectively meet the unique challenges faced in Arizona.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.
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