Border Patrol Seizes $1 Million of Pot Near Del Rio

Del Rio – U.S. Border Patrol agents working in the Del Rio Sector seized more than 1,300 pounds of marijuana, with an estimated value of $1 million in three different incidents, recently.

“Border Patrol agents in the Comstock area, over a period of three days, seized marijuana loads ranging in size from 55 pounds to more than 900 pounds,” said Chief Rodolfo Karisch, U.S. Border Patrol, Del Rio Sector. “Since the beginning of the fiscal year, Del Rio Sector agents have seized more than $6.5 million worth of illegal drugs.”

On Jan. 19 at approximately 9 a.m., agents from the Comstock Station, conducting linewatch operations, were following foot tracks with the assistance of a Border Patrol canine and discovered one abandoned green duffel bag. The bag contained 55 pounds of marijuana, valued at an estimated $44,400. The marijuana was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

On Jan. 18, around 9 a.m., Comstock Station agents responded to suspicious activity, reported the evening before, near the Rio Grande River.  As agents neared the area they discovered seven bundles containing 340 pounds of marijuana, valued at an estimated $272,560. DEA agents took custody of the marijuana.

On Jan. 16 at approximately 1 p.m., agents from the Comstock Station conducting linewatch operations via airboat, observed 12 individuals swimming away from the U.S. bank toward Mexico. A search of the area on the U.S. side revealed 15 green duffel bags containing 919 pounds of marijuana, valued at an estimated $735,840. The contraband was turned over to the DEA.

For Fiscal Year 2015, which began Oct. 1, 2014, the Del Rio Border Patrol Sector has seized more than $6.5 million worth of illegal drugs. The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the South Texas Campaign, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations.

To report suspicious activity, call the sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.