Border Patrol Agents Seize Heroin at Checkpoint

U.S. Citizen Arrested

Yuma, Ariz. — Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sector’s Wellton Station arrested a U.S. citizen at a Border Patrol checkpoint Saturday for attempting to smuggle more than 22 pounds of heroin. 

Agents assigned to the I-8 checkpoint at mile marker 17 referred a Toyota sedan to secondary inspection based on the driver’s suspicious behavior. After a canine team alerted to the vehicle during secondary inspection, the driver consented to a vehicle search. Agents then located eight bundles of heroin wrapped in duct tape and hidden inside the back seat. The narcotics, valued at $300,000, and the suspect were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Checkpoints play a vital role in the Border Patrol's ability to restrict routes of egress from the border area. By impacting smugglers’ ability to transport contraband throughout the United States, Border Patrol agents have made significant progress toward establishing a secure and safe border environment while improving the quality of life for affected communities throughout Arizona.

We welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling (866) 999-8727 toll free.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 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.