Eagle Pass Border Patrol Agents Find Abandoned Methamphetamine near the Rio Grande River

EAGLE PASS, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to Eagle Pass Station found a backpack containing 4.6 pounds of methamphetamine near a residential area. This the second time in less than a week agents in the area have discovered abandoned narcotics.

“The drug cartels, in their attempt to bring contraband to the United States, use any method to achieve their purpose,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “In this case, the smugglers abandoned the contraband near homes where children and families live, but our agents’ rapid response prevented a potential tragedy. This dangerous substance will not reach the streets and will not harm the general public.”

On June 19, agents assigned to the Eagle Pass Station, were responding to illegal activity north of downtown when they spotted foot prints going toward the Rio Grande River.  After an extensive search, agents discovered the backpack containing two packages of suspected narcotics, wrapped in black tape and cellophane.  At Eagle Pass Station, agents identified the substance as methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $147,200.  The drugs were turned over to the custody of the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The most recent discovery of abandoned narcotics happened June 16 when agents discovered an abandoned backpack along the banks of the Rio Grande River, which contained approximately 6.9 pounds of methamphetamine.

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages Federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.