Agents Seize 3,000 Pounds of Marijuana, 1 Truck

Tucson, Ariz. – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Ajo Station seized nearly 3,000 pounds of marijuana Saturday worth about $2.3 million.

Agents operating a mobile surveillance system near Lukeville observed suspicious activity involving a vehicle west of State Route 85 and directed other agents to the location. As agents approached the vehicle, unidentified subjects fled south; possibly into Mexico due to the close proximity of the international boundary.

Agents searched the abandoned truck and found 134 bundles of marijuana weighing approximately 2,960 pounds. Agents seized the truck and turned over the narcotics to the Drug Enforcement Administration. (Photos available)

Surveillance technology increases situational awareness by giving agents the ability to identify and classify all possible threats, and improve response times to illicit activity. Technology deployed along the border aids Tucson Sector agents in combating smuggling organizations and disrupting their ability to transport contraband throughout the United States.

Since launching the Southwest Border Initiative in March 2009, the Department of Homeland Security has made significant investments toward establishing a secure, safe border environment to improve the quality of life throughout Arizona communities.

Customs and Border Protection appreciates assistance from the community. Report suspicious activity by calling the Border Patrol at 1 (877) 872-7435. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

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.