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  4. Juveniles Apprehended Smuggling Marijuana in the Rio Grande Valley

Juveniles Apprehended Smuggling Marijuana in the Rio Grande Valley

Release Date
Thu, 10/24/2019

EDINBURG, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents apprehend four juveniles suspected of smuggling marijuana.

Tuesday morning, Rio Grande City agents working near Garceno, Texas, observed a vehicle drive to the Rio Grande riverbank where it was loaded with several bundles of suspected narcotics. Agents quickly responded to the area and successfully deployed a controlled tire deflation device on the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle changed direction and drove towards the river, crashed into a ranch gate and then absconded to Mexico. Agents retrieved 7 bundles of marijuana weighing approximately 380 pounds, worth an approximate value of $304,232.

Later that evening, Rio Grande City agents observed a motorcycle (small dirt bike) traveling away from the Rio Grande near Garciasville, Texas. The lone rider was observed carrying one bundle of suspected marijuana. The driver turned back south towards the river as agents responded. Agents apprehended the subject and subsequently discovered an abandoned bundle of marijuana weighing 57 pounds, worth approximately $45,865.

Early this morning, McAllen agents working in Mission, Texas, apprehended two Mexican juveniles after they were observed carrying suspected bundles of marijuana inside backpacks. The weight of the marijuana was 37 pounds, valued at $29,600.

Several hours later, McAllen agents apprehended two juveniles suspected of smuggling narcotics near Havana, Texas. Agents observed a group of subjects carrying five bundles near the Rio Grande. The group abandoned their smuggling attempt and returned to Mexico as agents moved in. The two juveniles were apprehended prior to reaching the riverbank, all other subjects absconded into Mexico.  Agents searched the surrounding area and discovered five bundles of marijuana weighing 204 pounds. The marijuana has an approximate value of $164,000.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382. 

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.

Last Modified: Mar 12, 2024