Tucson, Ariz. – Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents recovered a stolen vehicle yesterday abandoned in the West Desert and loaded with more than 1,700 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $890,400.
Casa Grande Station agents located the vehicle, a pick-up truck, while patrolling near Vekol Valley Road one mile south of Interstate 8. A records check revealed the truck was reported stolen out of Glendale, Ariz. Agents transported the narcotics to the Casa Grande Station for processing and turned the vehicle over to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.
The Border Patrol’s increased efforts to disrupt and deny transnational criminal organizations from operating in the Tucson Sector, often results in smugglers abandoning their loads rather than risk apprehension and criminal prosecution.
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.
The Border Patrol welcomes assistance from the community. Report suspicious activity by calling their toll-free number 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.
