May 23, 2019 500 AM
SIERRA BLANCA – A U.S. Border Patrol agent and his canine partner assigned to the Sierra Blanca Border Patrol Station and Checkpoint seized about 118 pounds of liquid methamphetamine, worth almost $4 million, said Big Bend Sector Public Affairs Border Patrol agent Arain Carrera.
An agent discovered two suitcases located in the lower luggage compartment of a passenger bus at the Sierra Blanca checkpoint. Inside the suitcases agents discovered 90 plastic bottles containing liquid methamphetamine, for an approximate weight of 118 pounds.
The successful seizure is attributed to a highly trained canine alerting to the narcotics and the canine handler’s years of experience.
The discovery was made while immigration inspections were being conducted on the passengers on board the bus.
Agents were unable to associate the narcotics to a passenger. The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Big Bend Border Patrol Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak said, “The great work done by this canine team prevented a significant amount of dangerous drugs from entering our country and contributing to criminal activity far beyond the border. This case is another example of the diligent and commendable work done by Border Patrol Agents every day.”
The Sierra Blanca Station area of responsibility consists of more than half of Hudspeth County or about 2,500 square miles. The station is responsible for 73 border miles between the U.S. and Mexico. More than 10,000 vehicles travel through the Sierra Blanca checkpoint on a daily basis.
