Agents Discover Marijuana Packaging Operation; Seize Nearly 3 Tons Worth $4 Million

Border Patrol agents in Texas broke up a marijuana packaging operation, seize these 412 bundles worth $4 million. Edinburg, Texas Agents from the Rio Grande City Border Patrol station seized more than 5,000 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of more than $4 million. Agents responded to suspicious activity near the river community of Escobares, Texas. When agents came upon what appeared to be a narcotics packaging operation, two subjects attempted to flee the area. Agents quickly reacted and detained the two for further investigation. Agents discovered numerous large bundles and an overwhelming odor of marijuana saturated the surrounding area. Further investigation revealed many more large and small bundles, packaging materials and precursors (grease buckets, saran wrap, lime sacks, gloves, and masks) commonly used to package marijuana. Once weighed, the 412 bundles had a total weight of 5,680 pounds with an estimated street value of $4,544,000.00. The subjects and contraband were all turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration and the case remains under investigation. This is yet another example of the Border Patrols effort to reduce crime in border communities and consequently improve the quality of life of valley residents.