West Desert Task Force Operation Results in Dope Seizure, Vehicle Recovery

Tucson, Ariz. – A targeted enforcement operation focusing on transnational criminal organizations operating in the west desert resulted in the seizure of 1,522 pounds of marijuana, Tuesday night, worth an estimated $761,000, and the recovery of a stolen vehicle.

The West Desert Task Force operation is a collaboration between the Tucson Sector Border Patrol, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office. Ajo and Casa Grande Station agents assigned to WDTF responded to detection technology near their location. A Customs and Border Protection helicopter crew, also near the area, responded and observed a vehicle covered with a tarp. Ajo agents arrived and discovered an abandoned pickup truck containing 71 bundles of marijuana. The vehicle and marijuana were transported to the Ajo Station for further processing.

The marijuana, weighing 1,522 pounds and worth an estimated $761,000, was seized. The vehicle, reported stolen out of Goodyear, was turned over to the Tohono O’odham Police Department.

Border Patrol agents remain vigilant while maintaining the security of our nation’s borders. Partnerships with other federal, state, tribal and local agencies continue to yield significant dividends against transnational criminal organizations attempting to exploit Arizona’s border region.

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

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.