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  4. Smuggler splashes down in the Rio Grande Valley – Border Patrol seizes drugs

Smuggler splashes down in the Rio Grande Valley – Border Patrol seizes drugs

Release Date
Fri, 06/01/2018

LA ROSITA, Texas – On Wednesday, Rio Grande City Border Patrol agents stopped a narcotics smuggling attempt and seized nearly 600 pounds of marijuana after a smuggler drove their load vehicle into the Rio Grande.

Agents seize almost 600 pounds of marijuana
Agents seize almost 600 pounds of
marijuana

The “splashdown” incident occurred when Border Patrol agents witnessed several subjects loading large bundles inside a Cadillac Escalade near the Rio Grande.

Minutes later, agents observed the vehicle departing at a high rate of speed. The driver made an abrupt U-turn as responding agents approached and ultimately drove the Escalade into the river. Agents saw the subject swim back to Mexico. 

Agents seized 47 bundles of marijuana with an estimated value of $460K.  

The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force took custody of the marijuana and SUV.

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting 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: Feb 03, 2021