Border Patrol agents seize modified drug-smuggling vehicle in Arizona
Feb 18, 2019, 2:59 PM | Updated: Feb 19, 2019, 6:11 am
(U.S. Customs and Border Protection Photo)
(U.S. Customs and Border Protection Photo)
PHOENIX — U.S. Border Patrol agents recovered a drug-smuggling vehicle in a remote area of the Sonoran Desert last week.
Officials seized the modified Jeep Cherokee after spotting the vehicle trying to drive across a makeshift ramp near the international border, according to a press release.
The vehicle was carrying 11 passengers and several suspected bundles of marijuana.
While out patrolling a stretch of desert along the Yuma/Maricopa county line, authorities discovered tracks from an off-road vehicle on protected land about four miles north of the border.
After finding the tracks, additional agents were called in, along with a helicopter, to try to locate the vehicle and its occupants.
The helicopter was successful in spotting the Jeep speeding toward the international boundary where limited border security infrastructure was present.
Using a makeshift ramp, the Jeep tried to jumped across the border but became stuck on the post and vehicle barrier.
The 11 passengers fled into Mexico, leaving the Jeep behind. Mexican officials were called in to search the area for the suspects.
No suspects or narcotics were found.
In addition to the vehicle, border agents also discovered where the Jeep first made entry into the U.S. and two more homemade ramps.
Individuals can report any suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435.
