TUCSON, ARIZ.—Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents working near Ajo, Ariz., seized big dope over the weekend in two separate incidents.
Late Friday evening, Ajo station agents working near Pisinemo, Ariz., discovered 34 bundles of marijuana abandoned in the desert. The narcotics weighed 1,768 pounds and had an estimated street value of $884,000.
On Saturday, CBP Air and Marine helicopter pilots observed three narcotics smugglers moving bundles of contraband on ATVs near Growler Valley Road southwest of Ajo, Ariz. When the smugglers saw the helicopter approaching, they fled the scene on foot, leaving behind three ATVs and 25 bundles of dope. Arriving ground agents seized the contraband and searched the area for the smugglers, but were unable to locate anyone. The marijuana seized had a total weight of 1,110 pounds and an estimated street value of $555,000. Two of the ATVs were seized; the third was reported stolen out of Pinal County.
All the narcotics seized will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Combining air and ground assets continues to play a vital role in combating transnational criminal organizations from operating in the Tucson sector. 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.