BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Marine Interdiction Agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations Bellingham Marine Branch seized nearly 1,500 pounds of methamphetamine Wednesday morning southwest of Stuart Island.
“Due to the vigilance and exceptional skills of our Marine Interdiction Agents, the Bellingham Air and Marine Branch was able to prevent these dangerous narcotics from harming members of our communities,” said Jeremy Thompson, Director, Air and Marine Operations, Bellingham Air and Marine Branch. “This latest incident is a testament to the dedication of Air and Marine Operations personnel to keeping communities on both sides of the border safe.”
The seizure occurred when the Marine Interdiction Agents working with CBP Office of Field Operations crewmembers performed an outbound inspection of a vessel in U.S. waters approximately ½ mile from the border between the U.S. and Canada. Upon boarding the vessel, the Marine Interdiction Agents discovered 28 duffel bags containing cellophane wrapped cylindrical packages. The contents of the packages were later tested, and it was determined they contained methamphetamine.
Agents arrested the Canadian citizen piloting the boat. Along with seizing the nearly 1,500 pounds of methamphetamine, agents seized the vessel and a Glock 9 mm handgun.
CBP’s Air and Marine Operations safeguards our nation by anticipating and confronting security threats through our aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise, innovative capabilities, and partnerships at the border and beyond. AMO interdicts unlawful people and cargo approaching U.S. borders, investigates criminal networks and provides domain awareness in the air and maritime environments, and responds to contingencies and national taskings.
For fiscal year 2022 Air and Marine Operations statistics, please visit: https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats/cbp-enforcement-statistics/air-and-marine-operations-statistics