September 8, 11

NEWS / Tucson Sector Border Patrol Agents Seize Two Tons of Marijuana

Tucson, Ariz. –Border Patrol agents seized approximately 4,300 pounds of marijuana, valued at more than $2.1 million, in four separate incidents during the holiday weekend.

Agents working near Mile Marker 74 off State Route 85 Monday night observed a vehicle traveling without the use of its lights. When agents attempted to stop the vehicle, a 1995 Dodge Ram, it turned west and drove off-road into the desert. Shortly after, agents located the truck abandoned and loaded with 103 bundles of marijuana worth an estimated $1.1 million. The truck was seized and the marijuana will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Also on Monday, agents using detection equipment near the Silverbell Mountains spotted a group of individuals carrying suspected bundles of marijuana. Agents responded to the location and found 16 bundles hidden in dense brush. The marijuana, weighing almost 842 pounds and worth an estimated $421,000, will be turned over to DEA.

Agents working near Pisinimo seized 13 bundles of abandoned marijuana Sunday afternoon weighing nearly 620 pounds. The marijuana, worth more than $309,000, will be turned over to DEA.

Another 11 bundles of abandoned marijuana was seized Sunday by agents working in the West Desert area. The marijuana had a combined weight of nearly 503 pounds and an estimated value of almost $251,500. The marijuana will be turned over to DEA.

Increases in technology and personnel have given the Tucson Sector Border Patrol a significant advantage in interdicting narcotics. Since launching the Southwest Border Initiative in March 2009, the Department of Homeland Security has made significant investments toward establishing a secure and safe border environment to improve the quality of life throughout Arizona communities.

Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. To report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol, call (877) 872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/local/09062011_2.xml