Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents seized two vehicles, more than $1.7 million in narcotics, and apprehended eight subjects in connection with criminal cases since mid-June.
On June 15, Ajo Border Patrol agents discovered more than 2,100 pounds of marijuana hidden in brush near Lukeville, Arizona. A canine unit and an Arizona-based Office of Air and Marine air asset contributed to the seizure valued at nearly $1.1 million. During an extensive search of the area, agents detected several potential subjects absconding into Mexico but no apprehensions were made.
On June 17, agents seized a Ford Taurus and arrested a female U.S. citizen for alien smuggling near Nogales, Arizona.
The following morning, a Tucson Air Branch asset assisted West Desert Task Force agents responding to sensor activation; leading to the discovery of an abandoned Chevrolet Tahoe in a wash near Kohatk, Arizona. An extensive search of the area resulted in the seizure of 54 bundles of marijuana worth in excess of $630,000.
Tucson Border Patrol agents arrested an adult male Mexican national, and seized a firearm and ammunition while assisting Department of Public Safety with a vehicle stop June 22 near Tucson. DPS took custody of the vehicle.
Later that evening, agents from the Brian A. Terry Station seized an Oldsmobile sedan and arrested two U.S. citizens for alien smuggling. Agents discovered one illegal immigrant in the rear passenger compartment and two more in the trunk of the vehicle.
All subjects are being presented for prosecution. The drugs, vehicles, firearms and ammunition were processed for seizure in accordance with Tucson Sector guidelines.