Tucson, Ariz. - In two separate incidents Wednesday, Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents seized more than 100 grams of heroin with an estimated value of more than $10,000, and more than 500 pounds of marijuana, valued at more than $400,000.
Willcox Station agents working at the Highway 90 checkpoint discovered more than 100 grams of heroin after a canine team alerted to a vehicle during inspection. The occupants, vehicle, and heroin, with an estimated value of $10,000, were seized and taken to the Willcox Station for processing.
In the second incident, agents assigned to the Nogales Station were patrolling east of Nogales when they spotted several individuals carrying bundles consistent with marijuana smuggling. As agents approached them, they dropped the bundles and began running away. Air Interdiction agents from the Office of Air & Marine (OAM) assisted with an aerial search of the area. Agents apprehended two subjects and seized 11 bundles of marijuana, weighing more than 500 pounds and valued at more than $400,000. The two subjects and marijuana were transported back to the Nogales Station for processing.
"Tucson Sector continues to gain operational control of our border by effectively deploying its resources" said Interim Patrol Agent in Charge of the Nogales Station Carla Provost. "These seizures are evidence that our agents will continue to remain vigilant, even as we make it more difficult for smugglers to transport narcotics."
With the effective deployment of manpower, technology and infrastructure, the U.S. Border Patrol continues to protect our communities against the criminal element. OAM acts as a force multiplier for the Border Patrol through its enforcement efforts from the skies; while specialty units, such as canine teams, are an invaluable asset used in combating transnational smuggling organizations stemming the flow of illicit contraband.