C.B.P. News Release

Memorial Day No Deterrent for Drug Smugglers

(Tuesday, May 26, 2009)

Edinburg, Texas — The U.S. Border Patrol’s Rio Grande Valley Sector continued to experience a substantial increase in narcotic seizures during the past week. From May 18 through May 24 there were 109 narcotic seizures totaling close to 16,000 pounds, compared to 9,219 pounds for the same time period last year.

The Falfurrias Border Patrol Station experienced the largest totals with four separate seizures netting more than three tons of marijuana and more than 100 pounds of cocaine.

In three separate incidents, agents from the McAllen Border Patrol Station seized 2,725 pounds of marijuana from vehicles leaving areas in the vicinity of the Rio Grande River. 31 pounds of marijuana were also discovered in the baggage compartment of a local northbound commercial bus.

Other notable seizures made by agents over the past week include 654 pounds of marijuana by the Kingsville Border Patrol Station, 889 pounds of marijuana by the Weslaco Border Patrol Station and 657 pounds of marijuana by the Rio Grande City Border Patrol Station.

In total, 15,923 pounds of narcotics with an estimated street value of $16,176,800.00 were seized and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. Overall, RGV Sector has experienced a 194.59% increase in narcotic seizures when compared to the same time period last year.

To report suspicious activity, contact the Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sectors’ toll free telephone number at 1-800-863-9382.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Contacts For This News Release
Rio Grande Valley
CBP Public Affairs
Phone: (956) 289-4844

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