Group leaves pot behind as Border Patrol agents close in

A group of suspected illegal immigrants apparently trying to circumvent the Border Patrol checkpoint north of Tubac on Sunday night fled into the desert after agents closed in, leaving behind nearly $1 million in marijuana.

Agents seized 27 bundles of pot near Amado weighing 1,280 pounds and with an estimated street value of $960,000.

Agents using seismic sensors and infrared cameras confirmed possible illegal activity near the checkpoint at Kilometer Post 42 on Interstate 19, near the checkpoint. While approaching the area, they called for air support from the Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Air and Marine.

Within minutes, pilots spotted two groups of suspected illegal immigrants dispersing and fleeing into the desert. Agents discovered numerous bundles of abandoned marijuana and called for back-up from a canine unit. The canine units also located several bundles.

The immigrants were not caught.