Border patrol seizes marijuana, arrests suspects
U.S. Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sector's Wellton Station seized approximately 495 pounds of marijuana and arrested six suspected drug smugglers during separate weekend incidents. The marijuana had an estimated street value of $247,500.
On Saturday agents patrolling near Gila Bend detected signs of six individuals traveling through the desert on foot, carrying large backpacks. Agents apprehended the group with 191 pounds of marijuana that was worth $95,500. The suspects were turned over to Maricopa County Sheriff's Office and the marijuana was seized for destruction.
On Sunday, agents assigned to Camp Grip, Yuma Sector's forward operating base, discovered six abandoned burlap backpacks filled with 304 pounds of marijuana. The marijuana, worth an estimated $152,000, was seized for destruction.
According to the Yuma Sector Border Patrol, the high probability of getting caught often causes smugglers to abandon their drug loads rather than risk apprehension and prosecution.
Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-866-999-8727 toll free.
James Gilbert can be reached at jgilbert@yumasun.com or 539-6854. Find him on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/YSJamesGilbert or on Twitter @YSJamesGilbert.
