C.B.P. News Release

Labor Day Weekend Nets Over $3.4 Million in Marijuana

(Wednesday, September 08, 2010)

Tucson, Ariz. – In seven separate incidents this weekend, Tucson sector Border Patrol agents seized more than 4,300 pounds of marijuana with a total value exceeding $3.4 million. The two largest marijuana seizures occurred in the West Desert.

Agents assigned to the Ajo station used Mobile Surveillance System technology Sunday to track and later apprehend seven illegal aliens carrying more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana in backpacks.

Early Tuesday, agents from the Casa Grande station tracked a vehicle that drove off-road and discovered the tracks led to an abandoned truck containing 1,100 pounds of marijuana.

In two other incidents, Tucson sector checkpoints were instrumental in the interdiction of smaller loads of marijuana. A canine team was responsible for finding 380 pounds of marijuana at the Highway 80 checkpoint. Agents using Non-Intrusive Inspection technology discovered 180 pounds of marijuana in a hidden compartment of a vehicle at the Interstate 19 checkpoint.

Tucson sector agents utilize a wide range of technology and specialty units to bring a law enforcement resolution to illicit smuggling attempts. Checkpoints also continue to be an effective means to stem the flow of illegal drugs into the U.S. From Oct. 1, 2009, to Aug. 31, 2010, the Tucson sector Border Patrol seized more than 943,100 pounds of marijuana, worth more than $754 million.

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
Tucson Sector
CBP Public Affairs
Phone: (520) 748-3210

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