Yuma, Arizona - Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sector’s Special Operations Detachment apprehended two groups of illegal aliens Tuesday, and seized more than 350 pounds of marijuana, along with multiple items used by smuggling networks.
Agents tracked and encountered the first six illegal aliens from Mexico near the Southern Arizona border. Once agents arrested the group, they searched the area and found five Motorola 2-way radios, 10 Motorola batteries, one Motorola charger, eight cellphones, one auxiliary cellphone charger, and two Nikon binoculars.
A short time later, agents found approximately 350 pounds of marijuana while tracking another group. Agents later encountered and arrested nine more individuals nearby. The seized marijuana has an estimated value of $175,000.
All 15 individuals were processed in accordance with Yuma Sector guidelines.
Yuma Sector’s SOD is comprised of certified special operations agents from the Special Operations Group; the Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue Unit (BORSTAR); and the Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC). Agents assigned to this unit undergo a difficult training regimen before being certified as SOD agents.
Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents effectively combat smuggling organizations attempting to transport people and contraband illegally through southwestern Arizona and California. Citizens can help the Border Patrol and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by calling 1-866-999-8727 toll-free to report suspicious activity. Callers may remain anonymous.