CBP U.S. Border Patrol Agents In Southern Arizona Seize 225 Pounds of Marijuana

Yuma, Ariz. — U.S. Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sector seized more than 225 pounds of marijuana Wednesday morning valued in excess of $112,500.

A group of suspicious individuals were observed near County 13th Street and the Colorado River in an area known for narcotics smuggling. As agents approached the location, the suspects fled toward Mexico. Agents searched the area and discovered five bundles of marijuana hidden in brush.

Yuma Sector has been effective in combating smuggling organizations attempting to transport contraband through southwestern Arizona. The probabilities of arrest and associated penalties cause smugglers to often abandon their drug loads rather than risk apprehension and prosecution.

All Customs and Border Protection assets in Arizona were realigned under a unified command structure in February 2011. Joint Field Command – Arizona unifies the Tucson and Yuma Border Patrol Sectors and Air Branches, as well as the Tucson Field Office, to enhance border security, commercial enforcement and trade facilitation missions to meet Arizona’s unique challenges. Follow us on Twitter @CBPArizona or visit the CBP Arizona website 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.