LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Laredo North Station thwarted a narcotics smuggling attempt northwest of Laredo.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of June 20, when agents observed a blue sports utility vehicle (SUV) being loaded with bundles of suspected narcotics. Agents attempted to stop the SUV near the entrance of a local ranch, but the driver failed to yield and a pursuit ensued southbound on Mines Road. Agents turned over the pursuit to CBP Air and Marine Operations who maintained visual of the vehicle from the air. The driver turned onto Fasken Boulevard and continued to the Rio Grande River where he drove the SUV into the water and absconded into Mexico. Laredo Sector Marine Operations agents arrived on scene and recovered five bundles of marijuana from the submerged vehicle.
The marijuana had an approximate weight of 371.5 lbs. with a value of $297,200. The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration and the vehicle was recovered from the river.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.
