Smugglers Abandon $3.5 Million in Narcotics

Tucson, Ariz. – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Tucson Sector, a component of the Joint Field Command-Arizona, seized 4,480 pounds of marijuana worth more than $3.5 million in the West Desert.

Last night, Ajo Station agents assigned to the Papago Forward Operating Base responded to detection technology while a Customs and Border Protection helicopter provided aerial support. Agents identified and began tracking tire tracks that led to two abandoned Chevrolet pickup trucks loaded with marijuana bundles.

Inside the vehicles, agents found a total of 4,480 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $3,584,000. The vehicles and narcotics were seized and transported to the Ajo Station for processing.

 “The continued vigilance by the men and women of the Ajo Station combined with our enhanced detection technology continues to disrupt the efforts of transnational criminal organizations operating in the western corridor of the Tucson Sector,” said Acting Deputy Chief Manuel Padilla.

The probability of arrest and the penalties for drug smuggling have had an impact on smugglers. Oftentimes, they choose to abandon their drug loads rather than risk apprehension and prosecution.

CBP welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

CBP announced the JFC-AZ in February 2011 as an organizational realignment that brings together the Tucson and Yuma Border Patrol Sectors and Air Branches, as well as the Tucson Field Office, under a unified command structure. JFC-AZ integrates CBP’s border security, commercial enforcement and trade facilitation missions to more effectively meet the unique challenges faced in Arizona. Follow us on Twitter @CBPArizona or visit the CBP Arizona website for more information.

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.