May 08, 2006    La Cruces, New Mexico
US Border Patrol agents arrest 2 females with 422 pounds of Marijuana

Las Cruces, NM - CBP Border Patrol agents at the I-25 traffic checkpoint in Las Cruces, New Mexico, seized 422 lbs. of marijuana over the weekend hidden inside jalapeno pepper cans. The cans of marijuana, valued at $338,000, were found in a 1994 Jeep Cherokee driven by two females.

While conducting immigration inspections at the checkpoint, agents noticed that both U.S. Citizen females began displaying unusual mannerisms when questioned by the agents. Agents gained consent to search the truck and discovered the contraband hidden in the rear cargo area with the assistance of a Border Patrol canine.

A total of 348 bundles of marijuana were vacuum-packed inside 96 cans of jalapeno peppers. Both females were arrested at the checkpoint. The women, the jeep and the narcotics were turned over to the DEA, where the case is being further investigated.

So far this fiscal year, Border Patrol agents in the El Paso Sector have made 712 narcotics seizures, valued at over $114 million.
Source: US Customs and Border Protection
 
PHOTO Source: 422 Pounds of Marijuana packed inside of Jalapeno Pepper Cans.