Border Patrol agents seize more than $1.5 million worth of marijuana

RIO GRANDE VALLEY – U.S. Border Patrol agents confiscated nearly 2,000 pounds of marijuana in three seizures early Friday morning, a more than $1.5 million worth of marijuana bust.

Early Friday, agents assigned to the Brownsville Station were advised of possible illegal activity on the eastside of Brownsville, CBP says. As the agents reached the area, they saw a white SUV driving north from the Rio Grande.

Border Patrol agents say the alleged marijuana driver noticed the agents and decided to make a U-turn, headed back to the river. The vehicle was then submerged in water. CBP says the driver swam back to Mexico, abandoning more than 1,100 pounds of marijuana.

Before the largest seizure, agents confiscated two smaller loads of marijuana in Garceno and Escobares, bringing the total amount seized to nearly 2,000 pounds.

Agents say the marijuana will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

CBP advices residents to report suspicious activity, in an effort to combat criminal organizations. The sector’s office can be reached at 800-863-9382.