Del Rio Sector Border Patrol agents seize more than $900,000 worth of marijuana

Del Rio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents throughout Del Rio Sector seized more than 1,100 pounds of marijuana, with an estimated value topping $900,000 in recent weeks.

On Dec. 3, Eagle Pass Station agents seized more than 400 pounds of narcotics. When agents attempted to conduct a vehicle stop on a Buick Le Sabre in an area known for human and illegal narcotics smuggling, the vehicle sped away. After a short pursuit, agents were able to apprehend the driver. Agents also apprehended a second individual in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a total of 199 packages. The packages contained 419 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $335,440.

On Dec. 5, agents from the Eagle Pass Station agents were conducting linewatch operations in an area known for human and illegal narcotics smuggling when they observed several individuals carrying large feed sacks away from the Rio Grande River toward an occupied vehicle. When agents approached the vehicle they encountered the individuals with several bundles of marijuana. Agents apprehended two individuals; the others absconded to Mexico. A search of the immediate area revealed a total of six packages. The packages contained 144 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $115,760. The case was turned over to the Maverick County Sheriff’s Office.

In several incidents between Nov. 24 and Dec. 6, agents from the Del Rio Sector seized 595 pounds of abandoned marijuana worth an estimated $477,480. In all of the seizures, Border Patrol agents encountered foot sign along known narcotics smuggling trails. While walking the trails, agents encountered a total of 126 bundles.

All cases were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration unless otherwise stated.

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the South Texas Campaign, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. For Fiscal Year 2013, the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector has seized over 35,000 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $28 million dollars.

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.