Agents Seize Weapons, Ammunition; Solar Panel from Smugglers

Tucson, AZ. – Two firearms, more than 200 rounds of ammunition, one solar panel, and several radios, cell phones and binoculars were seized this weekend by Tucson Sector Border Patrol, a component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Joint Field Command-Arizona.

Ajo Station agents arrested a U.S. citizen and four illegal immigrants Saturday in possession of one AK-47 assault rifle, one fully loaded 30-round magazine, a solar panel, and several radios and cell phones. Smugglers often use solar panels to power their communication devices in remote areas of the border. The subjects were apprehended after agents stopped their vehicle south of the Border Patrol checkpoint on State Road 85. The subjects were turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with the weapon, ammunition and other items seized.

Also on Saturday, Casa Grande Station agents arrested a U.S. citizen attempting to smuggle 100 rounds of 7.62 ammunition and 100 rounds of .38 Super Auto ammunition into Mexico. The vehicle, driver and ammunition were turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

On Sunday, Tucson Station agents conducting checkpoint operations on State Road 86 seized a loaded .45 caliber semiautomatic handgun after a record check revealed the weapon had been reported stolen. The firearm was turned over to the Arizona Department ofPublic Safety.

As Arizona law enforcement efforts continue to disrupt transnational criminal activities, the Border Patrol and other federal, state, local and tribal agencies are committed to keeping Arizona communities safe. Partnerships between law enforcement agencies serve as a formidable force against smugglers and other criminals.

CBP welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

CBP announced the JFC-AZ in February 2011 as an organizational realignment that brings together the Tucson and Yuma Border Patrol Sectors and Air Branches, as well as the Tucson Field Office, under a unified command structure. JFC-AZ integrates CBP’s border security, commercial enforcement and trade facilitation missions to more effectively meet the unique challenges faced in Arizona. Follow us on Twitter @CBPArizona or visit the attached site for more information.

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.