September 10, 09

NEWS / Border Patrol Seize More than 2 Pounds of Heroin at Checkpoint

Tucson, Ariz. – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Nogales Station apprehended a male Mexican national Sunday in possession of more than two pounds of heroin, with an estimated street value of $25,000 at the I-19 checkpoint.

Agents working at the I-19 checkpoint encountered a shuttle-van passenger who appeared extremely hesitant and nervous during a primary inspection at the checkpoint. The vehicle was sent to a secondary inspection area where agents discovered that the subject was carrying more than two pounds of Black Tar heroin. The subject was immediately arrested and held for further processing. The heroin was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.


Border Patrol checkpoints provide an additional defense in depth tool to secure our borders against illegal drugs such as heroin. This defense in depth strategy, and the arrests that result, are directly tied to our goal of providing secure borders. Checkpoints contribute to protecting the nation from the impact of contraband illegally transported across the border, as well as the impact of illegal aliens, some who may have ties to criminal organizations.

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09092009_2.xml