It is only halfway through the month of February, and already U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, at Arizona’s Port of Nogales have had multiple drug seizures totaling approximately $14.3 million, seized weapons, ammunition and arrested a man wanted for murder.
“I could not be prouder of our officers,” said Area Port Director Michael Humphries. “Even during a pandemic, they continue to keep dangerous opiods off the streets and keep our communities safe.”
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), since February 1, officers have accounted for more than 25 seizures resulting in 440 pounds of methamphetamine, 385,000 fentanyl tablets, 84 pounds of heroin, and nearly 13 pounds of cocaine.
Officers also seized an AR-15 assault rifle, a pistol, and 337 rounds of ammunition from a 28-year-old man who was wanted for murder.
Agents found that smugglers used various concealment methods including spare tires, dashboards and their bodies. In one case, a 42-year-old man and 39-year-old woman, both United States citizens, attempted to smuggle methamphetamine, fentanyl tablets and cocaine in a compartment beneath the center console of their pickup truck.
On February 10, a 41-year-old Mexican national truck driver was arrested after officers discovered over seven pounds of fentanyl tablets hidden within two fire extinguisher which was inside the cab of the tractor he was driving.
Earlier that day, officers working the rail environment discovered more than 256 pounds of methamphetamine and six pounds of cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment of a rail car.
On February 3, officers at the Mariposa crossing arrested a 28-year-old man wanted for murder out of Las Vegas. At the time of his arrest, the man was in a stolen vehicle, in possession of a loaded AR-15 assault rifle, a loaded pistol, and numerous rounds of various ammunition. The man was turned over to local authorities for extradition to Las Vegas.