DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents, working in the Del Rio Sector, seized more than 1,200 pounds of marijuana, with an estimated value of $960,000 in four different incidents, in recent weeks.
On April 17, at approximately 11 p.m., agents from the Eagle Pass Station, encountered foot sign leading away from the Rio Grande River in an area known for narcotic smuggling. After tracking the sign a short distance agents discovered six large bundles hidden in some brush. The bundles contained 347 pounds of marijuana valued an estimated $278,080. The marijuana was turned over to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
On April 18, at approximately 10 p.m., agents from the Eagle Pass Station conducting linewatch operations in an area known for narcotic smuggling, began tracking foot sign of several individuals. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Air and Marine helicopter pilot responded to assist in the search and was able to observe five individuals running away from the Rio Grande River. The pilot guided the agents to the location of the individuals where they discovered four feed sacks. The feed sacks contained 229 pounds of marijuana valued an estimated $183,600. The narcotics were turned over to the DEA.
On April 25, shortly after noon, agents from the Comstock Station conducting linewatch operations, discovered foot sign of several individuals leading away from the Rio Grande River toward Highway 90. After a search of the area, agents discovered seven military-style duffel bags hidden in the brush. The duffel bags contained 395 pounds of marijuana valued an estimated $316,320. The contraband was turned over to the Homeland Security Investigations.
On May 8, at approximately 1 a.m., agents from the Eagle Pass Station, conducting linewatch operations observed several individuals carrying what appeared to be large duffel bags. Agents searching for the individuals discovered four large military-style duffel bags abandoned in the brush. The duffel bags contained 229 pounds of marijuana valued an estimated $183,920. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.
For Fiscal Year 2015, the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector has seized more than 10,375 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $8.3 million dollars. The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations.
To report suspicious activity, call the sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.