U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents uncovered a significant drug haul last Thursday near the U.S.-Canada border in Washington state. During a patrol in a wooded area in Lynden, near a port of entry, agents found two black backpacks abandoned on the ground.
Upon inspection, the backpacks were found to contain 30 brick-like packages of a white, powdery substance, later confirmed to be cocaine. Officials estimate the street value of the seized narcotics to exceed $1.1 million. The drugs were handed over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for further handling and potential criminal investigation.
“Thanks to the vigilance of Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents, these dangerous narcotics were prevented from reaching our communities,” said Chief Patrol Agent Rosario Vasquez in a press release. “Our agents work tirelessly day in and day out to protect this nation, and this seizure highlights that crucial commitment.”
The DEA noted that cocaine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under U.S. law, indicating a high potential for abuse despite its limited medical applications. Cocaine abuse can result in severe health risks, including irregular heartbeat, heart conditions, strokes, convulsions, and even sudden cardiac arrest.
Authorities have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made in connection with the discovery, as the investigation remains ongoing. Most seized drugs are destroyed under federal law, though samples are retained as evidence in potential prosecutions.
This seizure underscores the ongoing challenges faced by border patrol agents in intercepting illegal drugs and safeguarding communities from the dangers of narcotics trafficking.