Ramps used by suspects
EL CENTRO – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents thwarted an attempt to smuggle drugs and drive-thru vehicle barricades using metal ramps on Sunday morning. Agents assigned to the Remote Video Surveillance System (RVSS) in the west desert area observed a White Chevy Tahoe drive into the United States about 400 yards north of the United States/Mexico International Border at 11 a.m.
suspect vehicle
Agents immediately responded to the area and advised the Mexican Federal Police of the incursion. U.S. Border Patrol Agent, El Centro Sector Agent Juan Gonzalez told Crime Voice, “We have a good working relationship with them.”
As agents approached, the vehicle with two men turned south to abscond. One man, who decided to return to the U.S., was apprehended by Border Patrol Agents. Pending the investigation, the outcome of the other man has not been announced.
Agents seized the Chevy Tahoe loaded with drugs. The 978.85 lbs. of marijuana with a street value of $391,540 was stuffed inside the vehicle. The man, a Mexican citizen, and the narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation.
confiscated drugs
“This incident demonstrates the importance of our RVSS system as an integral part of our border technology,” said Special Operations Supervisor Miguel Garcia. “The vigilance by our Border Patrol agents and their ability to rapidly respond is crucial in stopping dangerous narcotics from entering our communities, while keeping our nation’s borders safe. This is also an example of great inter-agency work between Mexican officials and the Border Patrol.”
Border Patrol agents later returned to the area of the initial incursion and discovered several metal ramps used to circumvent the in-place vehicle barricades.
Agent Gonzalez added, “Ramps, catapults — I’ve seen these tactics used in the past. It’s 24 hours a day. Thanks to the infrastructure, barriers, and technology, we can impede organized crime and this type of traffic comprised of vehicles loaded with drugs or individuals.”
