A Border Patrol canine team helped Douglas Station agents confirm that a pickup truck they stopped yesterday in Douglas, Arizona, contained approximately 621 pounds of marijuana worth more than $310,000.
Agents responding to detection technology located a white Dodge pickup with two occupants suspected of smuggling narcotics. The truck was headed north from the international boundary fence with a flat tire when agents stopped the vehicle and noticed obvious alterations to the truck’s bed. A canine team was called in and sniffed out the illegal drugs concealed behind a false wall.
Agents seized the vehicle and arrested the driver and passenger. The narcotics were turned over to the DEA in accordance with Tucson Sector guidelines.
Border Patrol canine teams work with agents in all aspects of border enforcement and are an integral part of the agency’s team. Canines’ keen sense of smell and training make them highly effective. They can screen vehicles in seconds and locate hidden people and narcotics. Canine teams also assist in locating, apprehending and rescuing people traversing through the desert and mountains in southern Arizona.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.