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  4. Border Patrol's Targeted Operations Huge Success

Border Patrol's Targeted Operations Huge Success

Release Date
Fri, 03/09/2012

TUCSON, ARIZ.—Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents seized approximately 3,400 pounds of marijuana in three separate incidents yesterday with a combined value of $1.7 million.

Ajo Station agents assigned to the All-Terrain Unit were tracking a group of suspected illegal aliens when they discovered a bundle of marijuana hidden under rocks on a mountainside. An extensive search of the area revealed 24 additional bundles. The 25 bundles weighed approximately 1,036 pounds and are estimated to be worth $518,000.

In another incident, Ajo's ATU agents responded to detection technology in an area west of Lukeville, Ariz., and discovered 11 bundles of marijuana abandoned in a wash. The bundles had a combined weight of around 535 pounds and an estimated value of $267,500.

Meanwhile, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies working together as part of the West Desert Task Force, along with Customs and Border Protection's Office of Air and Marine, responded to illicit activity in the desert and located one abandoned bundle of marijuana. An extensive search of the area also revealed an abandoned vehicle - a stolen Ford F-150 - loaded with 79 bundles of marijuana. The Department of Public Safety took custody of the truck and marijuana, 1,864 pounds worth valued at $932,000.

All contraband seized during the incidents will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

These combined enforcement efforts demonstrate unprecedented levels of cooperation, coordination and communication among various law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle smuggling organizations. The Border Patrol continues to deploy proven technology and specialty units that allow for a rapid response to illicit activity within the Tucson Sector.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021