ALAMOGORDO, N.M. – In separate incidents earlier this week, U.S. Border Patrol Agents arrested two narcotics smugglers and seized drugs with an estimated value of approximately $828,000.
On October 4, U.S. Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Alamogordo immigration checkpoint on U.S. Highway 54, encountered a red Cadillac approaching the primary inspection area.
Pursuant to an immigration inspection, a canine alerted to the possible presence of narcotics in the vehicle. During a further inspection of the vehicle, U.S. Border Patrol Agents located seven bundles concealed in the trunk. The packages contained seven pounds of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of approximately $224,000.
The driver, a 29-year-old lawfully admitted permanent resident male was placed under arrest. Additionally, a 43-year-old U.S. citizen female passenger was arrested. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) accepted deferred prosecution on both individuals.
In a separate incident on October 5, Alamogordo agents at the U.S. Highway 70 checkpoint arrested three individuals attempting to smuggle narcotics in a burgundy Toyota Camry. Agents searched the vehicle following a canine alert.
A 29-year U.S. citizen male had cocaine in his possession. Drugs were also found in the trunk of the car. Two passengers, a 32-year-old U.S. citizen female and a 19-year-old U.S. male citizen were placed under arrest. The subjects were turned over to DEA for criminal prosecution. Almost 19 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of $604,000 were seized.
“Transnational criminal organizations continue to attempt to smuggle narcotics through our immigration checkpoints,” stated El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “I am proud of the meticulous and vigilant work of our skilled Border Patrol Agents at the checkpoints as they continue to prevent drug smugglers from negatively impacting our communities.”
It is important to note that an arrest or criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered evidence of guilt. Subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol while remaining anonymous by calling 1-800-635-2509.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @USBPChiefEPT.