In a series of intensive security operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents at the Mariposa Port of Entry in Nogales, Arizona, have intercepted large quantities of lethal drugs and ammunition.

In recent operations, agents seized drugs capable of causing over 28.5 million fatal doses, highlighting the scale of the smuggling problem.

According to the Washington Examiner, the Mariposa Port of Entry has become a focal point in the fight against drug trafficking.

Massive Drug and Weapon Seizures Unveil Trafficking Networks

Over the past months, agents have discovered millions of fentanyl pills and hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, all aimed at distribution within the U.S.

The seized drugs include fentanyl, known for its potency and risk, and methamphetamine, notorious for its addictive nature and health risks.

One notable seizure occurred in May when agents found over three million fentanyl pills concealed inside the hollow sections of a utility trailer's steel beams. This seizure alone contained enough fentanyl to potentially kill approximately 2.36 million individuals, according to potency estimates.

The challenge is not limited to drugs. Weapon and ammunition smuggling has also been a grave concern, with significant quantities meant for traffic heading towards Mexico, earmarked likely for cartel use.

Strategic Interceptions Ahead of Holidays

Before the Memorial Day weekend, a critical time for heightened surveillance, CBP officers made multiple smaller drug seizures. They successfully intercepted 265,275 fentanyl pills alongside 56 pounds of methamphetamine. Such proactive measures are part of broader efforts to curb the tide of illegal substances during busy periods.

Additionally, in a different operation, agents uncovered 700,000 fentanyl pills cleverly hidden within food containers. This operation underscored the smugglers' ingenuity and the constant vigilance required by the CBP.

Drug seizures are frequently combined with the interception of ammunition and weapons. For instance, during outbound checks, officers seized 13,460 rounds of assault rifle ammunition from a single vehicle.

Another check led to the discovery of 53,858 rounds of ammunition, alongside two handguns, nine M13 Thermalbaric devices, and 18 magazines.

Seizing Contraband in Commercial Shipments

Commercial shipments have not escaped scrutiny. In one significant find, agents seized 323 pounds of methamphetamine disguised within shipments of charcoal. The seized methamphetamine was potent enough to potentially cause over 2,267 fatal overdoses.

These operations are part of the broader mandate of the Tucson Sector CBP, which oversees the Nogales Port of Entry. This sector is a significant point for imports and exports, with $28.6 billion worth of goods passing through in 2022 alone.

Despite these efforts, the challenge persists. Approximately 10.3 million people crossed through this port in 2023, and the CPB agents have recorded 28,292 apprehensions of illegal border crossers through April of fiscal 2024. Such figures underline the ongoing battle against smuggling.

Comments From the Port Director

Mariposa Nogales Port Director Michael Humphries has lauded the diligence of his officers. "Officers continue to be very diligent in their search for dangerous opioids," he said, emphasizing the risks posed by such substances.

Humphries also highlighted the scale of the ammunition and weapons seizures. "These were most likely going to supply and support cartel operations," he commented, pointing out the dual threat of drugs and arms smuggling.

In conclusion, the consistent efforts of CBP agents at the Mariposa Port of Entry highlight a significant stride in the ongoing war against drug and arms trafficking.

The amount of seized substances and weapons not only prevents countless potential deaths and violence but also underscores the persistent challenge of border security. Every seizure is a testament to the critical work undertaken by these agents to safeguard both U.S. and broader international interests.