CBP in Arizona Seize $1.1 Million in Narcotics

Tucson, Ariz. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents and the Tucson Air Branch collaborated on the seizure of an abandoned vehicle loaded with 94 bundles of marijuana exceeding $1.1 million yesterday.

During the afternoon, a Tucson Air Branch aircraft reported a vehicle incursion at the international boundary east of Lochiel, Ariz. Sonoita Station agents responded while aircraft personnel maintained a visual of the suspected vehicle. The pilots relayed to ground agents the vehicle had come to a stop near the border where the vehicle’s occupants fled and absconded into Mexico. Border Patrol agents arrived at the location of a Chevrolet Suburban containing the 94 bundles of marijuana. The 2,317 pounds of narcotics, worth an estimated $1,158,500, were seized and will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The vehicle will be seized per Border Patrol seizure guidelines.

The Tucson Sector Border Patrol continues its focus on dismantling smuggling organizations. Collaboration among CBP components prevents transnational criminal organizations from moving their contraband further into the country. Frustrated smugglers often abandon their contraband in hopes of eluding apprehension and subsequent prosecution.

Customs and Border Protection 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.