Border Patrol seizes $4.3 million of fentanyl in Arizona traffic stop

PHOENIX — Two U.S. citizens were arrested by Border Patrol on Wednesday after seizing 340 packages of fentanyl pills near Gila Bend, authorities said.

While conducting a traffic stop on a white Chevy Equinox that had exited Interstate 8 at mile marker 115, agents discovered several black duffel bags in the vehicle.

Agents received consent to search the vehicle by the female driving who was noticeably nervous, according to a press release.

Three bags were found containing packages wrapped in cellophane and black tape. They were also coated in axle grease, a method often used to mask the scent of drugs, the release said.

After further investigation, agents revealed 340 packages of fentanyl pills that weighed 187 pounds total, worth an estimated $4.3 million.

“I am grateful for the incredible work by Border Patrol agents to keep drugs off our streets,” said Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone in a statement. “Their efforts will save lives and promote safety.”

The driver and the passenger of the vehicle are facing prosecution for drug charges.

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