NOGALES, AZ – A reported 226 pounds of marijuana were recovered by U.S. Border Patrol’s Nogales Station after a patrol canine alerted agents, according to a Wednesday report.
Agents working at a checkpoint on Interstate 19 reportedly wanted a 1991 Chevrolet pick-up truck moved from the primary inspection lane to the secondary lane so it could be further examined.
As the car was approached by border patrol agents, the driver apparently sped away.
Later, the abandoned vehicle was located near kilometer post 49 on the I-19 median.
A border patrol canine was on the scene and alerted agents of possible contraband.
After further search of the vehicle, a hidden compartment was discovered containing about 226 pounds of marijuana, with an estimated worth of $180,800, according to a press release.
The Tucson Sector Traffic Checkpoints have been successful in putting a stop to illegal activity and interdicting narcotics after implementing the use of U.S. Border Patrol Canines.
During the 2008 fiscal year, Tucson agents working at operational checkpoints recovered over 51,000 pounds of marijuana worth approximately $40 million, 264 pounds of cocaine worth about $8 million and 64 ounces of heroin worth around $320,000.
