Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate 8 Immigration Checkpoint east of Yuma, Arizona apprehended a U.S. citizen, and seized a loaded handgun, ammunition, and drugs late Thursday evening.
Checkpoint agents referred the 31-year-old driver for a secondary inspection of his Dodge Avenger. A Border Patrol canine alert prompted agents to search the vehicle. The agents subsequently found three plastic bottles of marijuana weighing more than five pounds and valued at nearly $2,750 in two backpacks. Additionally, Border Patrol agents found a loaded .45-caliber pistol.
The driver, firearm, vehicle, and drugs are in the custody of the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office for further prosecution.
Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents effectively combat smuggling organizations attempting to transport people and contraband through Southwestern Arizona and California. Citizens can help the Border Patrol and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by calling 1-866-999-8727 toll-free to report suspicious activity. Callers may remain anonymous.