TUCSON, ARIZ.—Ten drug smugglers were apprehended and nearly 2,400 pounds of marijuana was seized during two incidents in the past 24 hours involving Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents patrolling in the west desert.
Ajo Station agents using infrared detection technology observed a group of possible narcotics smugglers near the border who dropped their backpacks and absconded south into Mexico. Interdicting agents secured the scene and found 36 bundles of marijuana weighing approximately 1,888 pounds and valued at $944,000.
In the second incident, Ajo agents responded to possible narcotics smuggling activity and apprehended ten illegal immigrants, each carrying a bundle of marijuana. The combined weight of the bundles was approximately 507 pounds; an estimated $253,500 worth of marijuana. The suspects may face federal prosecution.
In both incidents, the narcotics were seized and transported to the station for further processing.
Increased technology, infrastructure and personnel along the border continue to enable significant gains for Tucson Sector's Border Patrol. Targeted enforcement efforts designed to deny and dismantle transnational criminal organizations will augment the increased efforts already in place. These efforts allow Customs and Border Protection to better manage illicit activity along the border.
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.