September 8, 09

NEWS / Specially Trained CBP K-9 Team Detects Illegally Exported Assault Weapons

Douglas, Ariz. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped the illegal exportation of various assortments of assault weapons complete with high-capacity magazines and ammunition.


On September 5 at about 10 a.m. CBP officers were screening travelers in the south-bound lane that directs traffic from the U.S. into Mexico. CBP officers became suspicious of a 2000 Ford F-250 being driven by an 18-year-old Tucson, Ariz., man. With the assistance of a special K-9 team, trained in the detection of weapons and currency, the CBP officers were able to locate a stash of weapons concealed within the upholstery of the back seat.

The officers seized three 12-gage pump action shotguns, three assault rifles complete with high capacity magazines, a compact short barreled assault weapon, and ammunition for the three assault rifles.


“It is no secret that violence amongst the drug cartels in Mexico is on the rise,” said Michael Humphries, area port director for the Douglas and Naco ports of entry. “One of the main goals of our outbound operations is to support the Mexican government in their efforts to gain control over the cartels and their efforts to reduce cartel-related violence in Mexico. This partnership plays a big role in establishing stability on the southwest border.”


CBP officers seized all of the weapons, ammunition and vehicle. The Tucson man was turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for questioning.

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/09072009.xml