CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION MAY 2011...CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION –LAW...

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATIONThis document was created by Texas Department of Public Safety’s Border Security Operations Center in conjunctionwith federal, state, and local Unified Command partners as part of ongoing border security efforts and should besafeguarded and protected in accordance with the requirements of the above classification. The above classificationincludes this document and any accompanying attachments and/or e-mails.


Key Events and Findings

• The RGV Sector had a significant marijuana seizure of 7,553 lbs in Hidalgo Co. The marijuana,

seized from multiple rooms in a private residence fit in five pickup beds.

• The Coastal Bend Sector had a noteworthy seizure of 13.22 lbs of cocaine hidden in a radiator.

This is the fifth seizure from a radiator in the past six months. The majority originated from the

Brownsville, TX, area.

• All six JOICs had a combined currency seizure total of $2,188,541 USD this week. Del Rio,

Laredo, and Coastal Bend had significant seizures totaling just over $2 million USD.

• A Mexican police convoy transporting the Sinaloa cartel kidnapper, Geovany Lizárraga

Ontiveros, came under fire in a rescue attempt. Three civilians were caught in the crossfire on

the highway and injured. Two of the wounded travelers were identified as US citizens returning

from a visit to see family in Michoacán.

• At least 40 SUVs and pickups were stolen from a vehicle exposition in Reynosa on 07 MAY 2011

by an estimated 50-60 gunmen.

• Gas tanks and quarter panel concealments are some of the most prominent contraband

concealment methods. This week numerous seizures from gas tanks and quarter panels were

seen across all sectors.

• A Jordanian man was arrested in El Paso after an NCIC hit on the vehicle reference two missing

children (ages 2 and 3). The suspect had an outstanding warrant for robbery from 1978 from

California and several questionable documents were discovered in the vehicle. The subject was

arrested for multiple charges.


287

287

27

Dallam Lipscomb

Hemphill

Potter Gray

Parmer

Cochran

Yoakum

Hall

Hale Motley

LubbockDickens

Andrews

King

Terry

ShermanHansford Ochiltree

Hutchinson

Wheeler

Randall Armstrong Donley

CastroBriscoe

Childress

Cottle

Hardeman

Foard

Hartley Roberts

OldhamCarson

Deaf SmithCollingsworth

Bailey

Swisher

Lamb Floyd

HockleyCrosby

Gaines

Knox

Lynn GarzaKent Stonewall

Jeff Davis

Reeves

Loving Winkler

Ward

Ector

Dawson

Martin

Zavala

UvaldeKinney

Edwards

Brewster

La Salle

Dimmit

Starr

Bowie

CassCam

p

Titus

Fra

nklin

Mo

rris

Rains Marion

KaufmanHarrison

PanolaGregg

Rusk

Bell

WilliamsonMilam

Sabine

Trinity

UpshurWood

Van Zandt

NavarroHill

Cherokee

Freestone

McLennan

Falls

Shelby

Nacogdoches

San

Augustine

Jasper

Jefferson

Tyler

Walker

Polk

Robertson

Madison

Brazos

Hardin

San Jacinto

Grimes

Liberty

Chambers

Montgomery

Burleson

Lee

Ellis

Goliad

BeeLive Oak

Duval

Jim Hogg

Henderson

Anderson

Leon

Limestone

Travis

Hays

Comal

Houston

Angelina

Newton

Orange

Cooke Grayson Fannin

CollinDentonHunt

Lamar

Delta

Hopkins

Dallas

Red River

Rockwall

Nolan

Baylor

Jones Shackelford Stephens

Archer

Young

Taylor

Haskell Throckmorton

Callahan

Howard

Borden Parker

Erath

Palo Pinto

Montague

Clay

Wichita

Wilbarger

WiseJack

Upton

BrownColeman

RunnelsCoke

SterlingGlasscock

Midland

Crane

Menard

McCulloch

Concho

Sutton

Schleicher

Tom Green

Crockett

Pecos

Irion

Reagan

Comanche

Hood

Bosque

Somervell

Hamilton

Kimble

Mason

Mills

San Saba

Blanco

Burnet

Lampasas

Johnson

Gillespie

Terrell

Llano

Coryell

Tarrant

Washington

Fayette

Lavaca

Colorado

Austin

Fort Bend

Brazoria

HarrisBastrop

Matagorda

Kerr

Real

Bexar

Wilson

Karnes

Caldwell

Gonzales

DeWitt

Waller

Kendall

Atascosa

Frio

Medina

Bandera

Galveston

Fisher

Scurry

Mitchell

Culberson

Webb

Jeff Davis

Val VerdePresidio

Moore

Dona Ana

Luna

Grant

Hidalgo

Eastland

Guadalupe

Jim Wells

Willacy

Kenedy

Cameron

Wharton

Jackson

Victoria

Refugio

San Patricio

Nueces

Kleberg

Brooks

Hudspeth

Otero

HudspethEl Paso

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

El Paso Sector

p. 05-19

Marfa Sector

p. 20-26

Del Rio Sector

p. 27-36

Laredo Sector

p. 37-49Rio Grande

Valley Sector

p. 50-65

Coastal Bend

Sector

p. 66-78

Statewide Corridor Seizures

p. 79-85

Overall Assessment

p. 102-108

Sig. Mexico Events

p. 86-101

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE

Operation BORDER STAR 11 – 17 MAY 2011


EL PASO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR11 – 17 MAY 2011

EL P

AS

O

H U

D S

P E

T H


UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS

Horizon City PD

Ysleta Del Sur Tribal PD

El Paso ISD PD

University of Texas El Paso PD

El Paso Community College PD

El Paso Office of Emergency

Management

Texas Tech University PD

Texas Comptroller of Public

Accounts

Texas Attorney General, El Paso

Union Pacific Railroad PD

Texas Alcohic Beverage

Commission

El Paso County Constables

USBP CBP – OFOICE West TX HIDTAEPICTMFDPS TPWDUS Army, Ft. Bliss CIDEl Paso CO SOHudspeth CO SODona Ana CO SO (NM)Grant CO SO (NM)Hidalgo CO SO (NM)Luna CO SO (NM)Otero CO SO (NM)Anthony PDEl Paso PD

Full Map/Table of Contents


El Paso SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 86

Fugitive Arrests 36

Gang Related Criminal Arrests 8

Pursuits 1

Scouts/Decoys 0

Illegal Alien Apprehensions

IAs/Referrals 0

IAs/USBP 180

OTMs 18

OTM Countries

Venezuela 1

China 2

Columbia 1

Honduras 1

Ecuador 1

Guatemala 3

Peru 1

El Salvador 2

Brazil 4

Cuba 1

Mongolia 1

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 1,839.41 lbs

Cocaine 4.11 kilos

Heroin 0.09 kilos

Methamphetamine 0.0 kilos

Currency $1,100.00

OtherEcstasy, 1 pill,

Hydrocodone, 1 pill

Weapons

Handgun(s) 0

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0Vehicles Stolen / Recovered

Stolen 16

Recovered 2


El Paso SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

$40,771

$23,358

$278,147

$1,100$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Se

ize

d

El Paso UC Currency Seizures

1,208.90

1,674.88

3,398.69

1,839.42

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

3,500.00

4,000.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

El Paso UC Marijuana Seizures

0.045.80

44.65

9.07

0.00

5.00

10.00

15.00

20.00

25.00

30.00

35.00

40.00

45.00

50.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

El Paso UC Cocaine Seizures

258 258268

180

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

El Paso UC Illegal Aliens


Gang activity

Norteno Barrio Azteca Aryan Brotherhood of Texas

Sur 13 Hustle Kingz Lower Valley Criminals

Bloods Pura Raza Mexicana Mexican Crazy Klica

Vice Lord

Thirteen gang-related incidents were reported during this reporting period involving

thirteen arrests of members from ten different gangs. There were eight criminal arrests

and five fugitive arrests. The incidents involved: Evading Arrest, Criminal Trespass,

Possession of Marijuana, Homicide, Attempted Homicide, Possession of a Controlled

Substance, and Unlawful Carry of a Weapon.

Significant events : (EPPD 11-022233) a HUSTLE KINGZ gang member shot at a vehicle,

striking an individual and killing him. A second subject in the vehicle was uninjured.

Significant Arrest: Operation SANDSTORM

Jesus Francisco Arredondo-Jasso, DOB: 2/14/1988, was for two counts of

Sexual Assault of a Child. The arrest warrant was issued out of AK.

Arredondo-Jasso is a self-admitted Ex-Sureno gang member and is in the

US illegally.


Gang activity (cont)US Marshals and associated El Paso Sector law enforcement conducted a warrant sweep entitled

Operation Sand Storm. Approximately 164 fugitives were arrested and 263 warrants were cleared.

Fourteen gang members were arrested to include: (8) Barrio Azteca, (1) Chuco Town, (1) Border

Brothers, (1) Barrio San Juan, (1) Latin King, (1) Northside Kings, and (1) Sureno. Agencies assisting

in the operation in conjunction with the US Marshals included: El Paso PD, the El Paso Co SO, ICE, USBP, FBI,

BATFE, DEA, Texas OIG, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, TABC, El Paso Co District Attorney’s Office, El

Paso Co Constables, THP and the Texas Rangers

Miguel

BETANCOURT

DOB: 9/18/1979

Chuco Town

Armando

MUNOZ Jr.

DOB: 7/11/1990

Varrio San Juan

Michael

JIMENEZ

DOB: 2/19/1982

Latin Kings

Abraham

VALERO

DOB: 9/16/1988

Sureno

Elliot BRISENO

DOB: 11/29/1991

Northside Kings

Edgar

CASTORENA

DOB: 7/4/1987

Border Brothers

Fabian

MAGUREGUI

DOB: 7/22/1969

Barrio Aztecas

Juan JIMENEZ

DOB: 6/23/1956

Barrio Aztecas

Ernie LARA

DOB: 8/15/1972

Barrio Aztecas

Antonio

MARMOLEJO

DOB: 6/23/1964

Barrio Aztecas

Omar DUARTE

DOB: 5/7/1987

Barrio Aztecas

Marco MURILLO

DOB: 5/10/1978

Barrio Aztecas

Mario MEDINA

DOB: 9/3/1992

Barrio Aztecas

Ricardo

SALDANA

DOB: 4/10/1980

Barrio Aztecas


Southbound OperationsFrom 11 May – 13 May 2011, El Paso DPS CID and THP personnel conducted GATE Operations at

the Fabens and Fort Hancock POEs. Approximately 950 southbound and 432 northbound vehicles

were inspected. Approximately 155 traffic citations were issued during the operation for a variety of

violations. One Big Tex trailer with an altered VIN was seized for further investigation. One counterfeit

title was surrendered during the operation.

Fabens POE

Altered VIN No.

Big Tex Trailer

On 06 May 2011, an El Paso DPS CVE Trooper conducted a license plate check on a vehicle bearing GA

registration on IH-10W, and received an NCIC alert regarding two missing children (ages 2 and 3). The

Trooper stopped the vehicle and both children were recovered. The driver was arrested on an outstanding

warrant issued out of GA for interference with custody of a child. Additionally, El Paso DPS CID, with the

assistance of the Texas Rangers, seized several questionable government documents. The Jordanian

suspect has been residing in the US and faces additional forgery charges for the located documents. The

suspect was also found to be wanted under an alias name for a 1978 robbery committed in California. A

positive identity was confirmed by the Texas Rangers through fingerprints submitted to Los Angeles Co

SO. Investigation continues by HIS, DPS CID, and the Texas Rangers.

Ahmad A Makahlea

01/27/1954

222-52-2106

Various Seized Documents


Additional information

CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of Americas POE seized:

11 MAY 2011

80.34 lbs of marijuana

2005 Toyota CorollaConcealment: Rear

quarter panels

16 MAY 2011

69.31 lbs of marijuana2003 Nissan 350ZConcealment: Behind driver

and passenger seats

16 MAY 2011


1994 Ford Mustang

Concealment: Rear

bumper


Additional information (cont)

CBP-OFO Officers at the Ysleta POE seized:

11 MAY 2011


2002 Ford Expedition

Concealment:

Within rear cargo

11 MAY 2011


1996 Jeep Cherokee

Concealment: All

four tires



CBP-OFO Officers at the Ysleta POE seized:

12 MAY 2011


2002 Chrysler Cirrus

Concealment: Rear seats,

gas tank floor and roof

13 MAY 2011


1999 Hyundai Tiburon

Concealment: Dashboard

14 MAY 2011


1995 Jeep Cherokee


15 MAY 2011


1998 Jeep Cherokee

Concealment: Spare tire



CBP-OFO Officers at the Paso del Norte POE seized:

11 MAY 2011


2008 Ford Focus

Concealment: Quarter

panels

12 MAY 2011



1993 Ford van E-150

Concealment: Non-factory

compartment in the roof

12 MAY 2011


2000 Ford Windstar

Concealment: Fuel tank

12 MAY 2011


1994 Plymouth Voyager



CBP-OFO Officers seized:

12 MAY 2011 – Paso del Norte POE

7.5 lbs of cocaine

2001 Ford Explorer



15 MAY 2011 – Ysleta POE


1998 Ford Windstar


15 MAY 2011 – Columbus, NM POE

24.25 lbs of cocaine

2003 Chevrolet Venture




Additional information (cont) On 12 May 2011, El Paso PD Auto Theft Task Force

(ATTF) Officers received information that an

employee at an auto salvage lot was in possession

of a stolen motorcycle. Surveillance was

established, and when the subject arrived at work,

Officers requested to inspect the motorcycle. El

Paso PD confirmed that the motorcycle had been

stolen in 2005. The motorcycle was impounded,

2003 Suzuki GXSR

Stolen Engine (non-repairable)

and officers obtained consent to search the subject’s

residence for additional stolen goods. The search revealed

a motorcycle engine that was reported stolen from

Scottsdale, AZ in 2001. El Paso PD ATTF will continue its

investigation.

On 08 May 2011, an El Paso PD Officer was

operating a License Plate Reader (LPR) unit

funded by Border Star grants on I-10/E at

MM:33. The LPR notified the Officer of a

possible stolen 1995 Buick Le Sabre, as the

vehicle passed through. The vehicle was

confirmed stolen, and the Officer initiated a

traffic stop. A subsequent warrant check

revealed several outstanding. The driver was

arrested and the vehicle was impounded. El

Paso PD Auto Theft Task Force Officers were

notified and continue to investigate.

LPR Laptop Screen Reading

Actual 1995

Buick Le Sabre




For the week ending 14 May 2011, the Border Auto Theft Information Center (BATIC) received 3,568

inquiries/callers requesting information on suspicious vehicles. The BATIC Specialists responded

affirmatively to 57 of these calls with stolen vehicle information forwarded to the requesting officers. For

the week, 40 vehicles were returned back to the US with a property value calculated at $465,488 USD.

On 10 May 2011, El Paso CID personnel recovered 15 stolen vehicles from Mexico. The total

property value was calculated at $267,893 USD.

As a result of an investigation by the El Paso Co SO, Officers seized

approximately 661 grams (1.48 lbs) of cocaine which was concealed inside a

hidden compartment of a 2007 Honda Accord. Also seized was an

undetermined amount of United States currency. Jorge Ivan Venegas of

Socorro, TX, was arrested and charged with Possession of Controlled

Substance.

El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment

The El Paso Sector experienced a decrease in marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and currency

seizures, and an increase in heroin during this reporting period. There was a decrease in stolen vehicles

(22) as well as a decrease in recovered stolen vehicles (2). Of the total 1,791 lbs of marijuana seized at

the POEs, 315 lbs was seized at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) POE, 721 lbs at the Ysleta POE, 490

lbs at the Paso Del Norte POE, 240 lbs at the Santa Teresa POE, and 24 lbs in the Lordsburg area. There

were 21 reported marijuana seizures across the POEs, and 1 cocaine seizure at the Ysleta POE for a total

of 3.4 kilos seized during this reporting period.

Two predominate concealment methods during this reporting period were in dashboards and vehicle fuel

tanks. Additional concealment methods included vehicle roofs, vehicle tires, vehicle seats, quarter panels,

fender wells, tires and roof areas.


El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)

The El Paso PD reported 7 marijuana seizures totaling 0.638 lbs, and 3 cocaine seizures totaling

0.0217 kilos. The El Paso Co SO reported 2 marijuana seizures totaling 45.86 lbs, and 5 cocaine

seizures totaling 1.3516 kilos (2.98 lbs).

During this reporting period, 180 IAs were apprehended. IA apprehensions decreased by 88 from

the previous week’s 268. Total reported IA apprehensions within the El Paso Sector from 5 Jan

2011 through 17 May 2011 were 4,827, with 305 being Other Than Mexican (OTM).

From 4/13 – 4/19 (33 OTM Apprehensions)





Leading IA OTMs 5 JAN 2011to date:

Guatemala 78

El Salvador 42

Honduras 41

Brazil 40

India 24

BRAZIL, 28

ELSAL, 18GUATE, 18

HONDO, 11

PERU, 2

DR, 1

POLAND, 3

INDA, 5KENYA, 2

FRANCE, 1

NIGIA, 2

SAUDI, 1

CHINA, 2

COLOM, 1ECUAD, 1

VENEZ, 1 CUBA, 1

MONGO, 1

BRAZILELSALGUATEHONDOPERUDRPOLANDINDAKENYAFRANCENIGIASAUDICHINACOLOMECUADVENEZCUBAMONGO

OTM Apprehensions between 13 Apr - 17 May


El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)

City-wide index crime continues to show a decrease by

7% compared to the same time frame last year. There is

a noted 1,200% increase (12) in murders, a 56% increase

(32) in sexual assaults, a 6% decrease (9) in robberies, a

2% decrease (99) in assaults, a 6% decrease (40) in

burglary, an 11% decrease (539) in larceny, a 22%

decrease (145) in vehicle theft, and a 2% increase (21) in

vehicle burglary. (Information provided by El Paso PD)

Population of El Paso: 649,121 (2010 Census)

Population El Paso City and County: 700,000

Population figures do not reflect the individuals fleeing CD.

Juarez to El Paso due to the on going DTO Violence

Citywide (YTD through 14 May 2011)

Offense 2010 2011 % Change

Murder 1 13 1,200%

Sexual Aslt 57 89 56%

Robbery 154 145 -6%

Aslt 4,152 4,053 -2%

Burglary 675 635 -6%

Larceny 4,909 4,370 -11%

Veh Theft 652 507 -22%

*Burg Vehicle 938 959 2%

Total: 10,600 9,812 -7%

*** Crime Rate: 1,644 1,522 -7%

Murder, 1

Sexual Aslt, 57Robbery,

154

Aslt, 4,152

Burglary, 675

Larceny , 4,909

Veh Theft, 652

*Burg Vehicle , 938

Murder

Sexual Aslt

Robbery

Aslt

Burglary

Larceny

Veh Theft

*Burg Vehicle

City Wide for week ending 14 May 2010

Murder, 13

Sexual Aslt, 89

Robbery, 145

Aslt, 4,053

Burglary, 635

Larceny , 4,370

Veh Theft, 507

*Burg Vehicle , 959

Murder

Sexual Aslt

Robbery

Aslt

Burglary

Larceny

Veh Theft

*Burg Vehicle

City Wide for week ending 14 May 2011


H U D S P E T H

P E C O S

T E R R E L L

C U L B E R S O N

J E F F D A V I S

B R E W S T E R

R E E V E S

MARFA UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR11 – 17 MAY 2011


Hudspeth CO SO Jeff Davis CO SO Pecos CO SO Presidio CO SO Reeves CO SO Terrell CO SO Alpine PD Fort Stockton PDPecos PD Presidio PD

USBP CBP - OFO ICE NPSWest TX HIDTATMFTPWDDPSBrewster CO SO Culberson CO SO

P R E S I D I O

Full Map/Table of ContentsCONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE


Marfa SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 2

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 69

Fugitive Arrests 1


Pursuits 0

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 1

IAs/USBP 49

OTMs 2

OTM CountriesGuatemala 1

New Zealand 1

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 600.23 lbs

Cocaine 0.01 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs

Methamphetamine 0.0 lbs

Currency 0

OtherHashish 0.015 lbs,

Vicodone 1 pills,

Oxycodone 1 Pills

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0

Vehicles Stolen / Recovered

Stolen 0

Recovered 0


Marfa SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

96.11

2,142.031,969.41

600.24

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ized

Marfa UC Marijuana Seizures

0.00 0.00

0.30

0.010.00

0.05

0.10

0.15

0.20

0.25

0.30

0.35

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Marfa UC Cocaine Seizures

$0

$109,576

$0 $0$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Se

ize

d

Marfa UC Currency Seizures

98

36

47

49

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Marfa UC Illegal Aliens


ICE, CBP, DHS, Midland Co SO, Ector Co SO, and Odessa PD, assisted by DPS 104 and DPS

114, at an apartment complex currently under construction on Faudree Rd. and TX-191 in Odessa,

TX. Numerous suspected illegal aliens were believed to be working at the site. Warrants were

obtained to search the entire site and also determine immigration status of all workers. Over 100

Law Enforcement Officers set up a perimeter and systematically searched and located over


100 workers. After the

initial investigation, 39

individuals were found to

be in the country illegally.

One individual had an

outstanding warrant.



USBP Marfa Agents seized 56.5 lbs of marijuana

abandoned at the Valentine Cemetery in Valentine, TX.

The narcotics were turned over to DEA. (No Photos

Available)

Valentine Cemetery

USBP Marfa Agents seized 249.7 lbs of

marijuana and apprehended two IAs on US-90 in

Presidio Co, 13 miles west of Marfa, TX. Two

subjects were seen absconding to the north. The

marijuana and subjects were turned over to DEA

for federal prosecution.



USBP Marfa Agents found 193.35 lbs of abandoned

marijuana near the Middleton Ranch in the western

part of Presidio Co, 43 miles from Marfa. The

abandoned marijuana was turned over to DEA.

Note: It is approximately 19.7 miles from

site where 53.25 lbs were seized the

day before

Marfa USBP apprehended five IAs near the Indian

Peak Canyon in Jeff Davis Co, 12 miles west of

Valentine, TX. The IAs were in possession of

53.25 lbs of marijuana. Three subjects and the

marijuana were turned over to DEA for federal

prosecution and two minor IAs were processed for

removal.


Marfa Unified Command Sector Assessment

Marijuana seizures are down by approximately 70% compared to last week. Marfa USBP Agents

have been very active in Presidio and Jeff Davis Counties with two seizures of marijuana and the

apprehension of IAs backpacking the marijuana. Seven IAs were involved in the two separate

marijuana seizures. Two IA minors from one of the seizures were released. There were two

seizures of abandoned marijuana still in backpacks. The only other seizures of marijuana occurred

at USBP checkpoints. Backpacking continues to be the primary means of smuggling marijuana in

the Marfa Sector.

ATF seized one firearm at the

Sierra Blanca USBP

Checkpoint.

IA apprehensions were up

slightly this week.

Western Presidio Co, western

Jeff Davis Co along US-90,

southwestern Presidio Co

along the Rio Grande, and the

IH-10 Checkpoint in Hudspeth

Co were all very active for

trafficking during this reporting

period.

The four marijuana seizures in the

Marfa Sector this week.

Valentine, Texas


V A L V E R D E

U V A L D E

R E A L

M A V E R I C K

K I N N E Y

D I M M I T

E D W A R D S

Z A V A L A


DEL RIO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR11 – 17 MAY 2011


Maverick CO SOReal CO SOVal Verde CO SOUvalde CO SOZavala CO SODel Rio PD38th Judicial District (Volunteer)Dimmit CO Constable (Volunteer)Edwards CO SO (Volunteer)Uvalde PD (Volunteer)

USBPCBP-OFO ICE-FNUSouth TX HIDTANPSUSCGTPWDTMFDPSDimmit CO SOKinney CO SO



Del Rio SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 12

Bailouts 5

Criminal Arrests 9

Fugitive Arrests 6


Pursuits 3

Scouts/Decoys 2


IAs/Referrals 4

IAs/USBP 265

OTMs 77

OTM Countries

El Salvador 14

Guatemala 22

Honduras 40

Morocco 1

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 0 lbs

Heroin 0 lbs

Methamphetamine 0 lbs

Currency (Southbound) $549,950.00

Other 0

Weapons

(Southbound)

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 10

Ammunition 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 8


Del Rio Sector

The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks:

$6,000

$150,000

$0

$549,950

$0

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Se

ize

d

Del Rio UC Currency Seizures

4,337.69

496.38 652.62

746.64

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

3,500.00

4,000.00

4,500.00

5,000.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Del Rio UC Marijuana Seizures

47.90

63.86

71.12

0.000.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

70.00

80.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Del Rio UC Cocaine Seizures

328

334

288265

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Del Rio UC Illegal Aliens


Gang activity

A Uvalde PD Officer was contacted by the 38th Judicial District Adult Probation Office in reference

to a male subject in their office who had an active warrant. The Officer observed several tattoos on

the subject. The subject had a five-point crown on his chest, right arm, and back (crown on lion

head), and an LK on the inside of his lip. These are known LATIN KINGS tattoos. He also wore a

crown belt buckle. Once detained for the warrant, the subject admitted to being a LATIN KINGS

member. Photos were taken of the tattoos at the Uvalde Co Jail.

Latin King tattoos - five point crowns

L K – inner lip

Crown belt buckle


Gang activity (cont)

Spur on scalp 210 Area code-Uvalde

Rt arm

A Uvalde PD Officer went to a residence on Farrar St in Uvalde in reference to a pellet

gun shooting. The Officer was invited into the house, and observed marijuana and

paraphernalia in plain view. A detective secured a search warrant for the premises.

One quarter-lb of marijuana was found in the house, and three-quarters of a lb of

marijuana was found in the trunk of a 1991 Lincoln Town Car. The subject was

arrested for possession of marijuana, and the vehicle was seized. The subject was

also found to be a member of both the street gang MANIAC LATIN DISCIPLES, and

the prison gang TANGO OREJON.

A Dimmit Co Deputy Constable identified one subject as a possible member of the

MS-13 gang. The subject had numerous associating tattoos, and had served time

previously in TDCJ. The subject was photographed and released.


Southbound operations

.223 pistol conversion

Boxes containing weapons in

cargo area.

Yugo SKS Assault Rifle

AK-47 Assault Rifle

AR-15 Assault Rifle

Rifles in box

CBP-OFO Officers, working outbound at the Eagle Pass POE Bridge 1, referred a 2003 Ford

Explorer to secondary inspection following a K-9 alert. The driver gave a negative declaration for

weapons or currency. An inspection of three boxes located in the rear of the vehicle revealed ten

assault rifles and one pistol. The vehicle was also outfitted with an electronically operated false

compartment under the center console. The subject was arrested, and the vehicle and weapons

were seized.

SILENCER


Southbound operations (cont)

While conducting outbound inspections at Eagle Pass POE Bridge 1, the CBP-OFO A-

TCET selected a 2008 Mazda 6 for inspection. The driver stated he was traveling to

Piedras Negras and gave a negative declaration for currency, firearms, and ammo. At

the secondary inspection point, non-factory compartments were discovered on both

DPS-CID Agents, CBP-OFO Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team (A-TCET), USBP, the

Maverick Co SO and Eagle Pass PD Auto Theft personnel, working a joint Border Star Operation at

the Eagle Pass POE conducting outbound vehicle inspections, sent a maroon Hummer H-2 into

secondary for inspection. CID Agents inspected the Hummer and discovered the vehicle

identification had been altered. CID Agents utilizing alternative methods were able to identify the

vehicle as a 2003 Hummer H-2 with a different VIN. An inquiry regarding the Hummer revealed it to

be reported stolen out of Williamson Co SO on 17 APR 2008. The theft report was confirmed as an

active stolen vehicle. The vehicle was seized and impounded. The investigation is ongoing.

sides of the vehicle. A K-9 had a positive alert to the rocker panel area and an abnormal Buster

reading was received. Twenty-four packages of currency were removed from both sides of the

rocker panels, for a total of $549,950 USD. The currency and vehicle were seized, and the subject

was turned over to ICE.


Additional information (cont) trash-beverages and chips

A Dimmit Co Deputy Constable observed a 2002 Chevrolet

Tahoe traveling SH-85W and attempted to run a registration

check on the vehicle. The vehicle sped up and a pursuit

ensued. A Dimmit Co Deputy assisted with the pursuit. The

vehicle began traveling on SH-85E. The driver bailed out of the

vehicle approximately one mile east of FM-468. The driver

absconded into the brush. The vehicle was reported stolen out

of Austin, TX.

USBP Agents were on duty in an orchard near the Rio Grande, just south of Eagle

Pass when an Agent heard several subjects approaching. As they neared his

location, one subject spotted him. The Agent gave chase. One subject dropped a

green duffle bag. A K-9 located another duffel bag in the brush. All the subjects

absconded back to Mexico. The duffle bags contained 130 bundles of marijuana

weighing 141.34 lbs. The contraband was turned over to the DEA.

Rear seat removedPunched out ignition



Marijuana in rear quarter panel

USBP Agents performing line watch duties off FM-1021 approximately 25 miles

Southeast of Eagle Pass, encountered foot sign crossing Mines Rd. The Agents

followed the foot sign, and discovered five green military style duffle bags lying in a

brushy area. The bags contained 22 bundles of marijuana, weighing 235.22 lbs. The

contraband was turned over to the DEA.

USBP Agents at the US-57 Checkpoint in

Maverick Co referred a 2001 Ford Explorer

to secondary following a K-9 alert. A search

of the vehicle yielded multiple bundles of

marijuana in the rear quarter panels. A total

of 66.18 lbs of marijuana was seized. The

subject was arrested; the marijuana and

vehicle were seized.

USBP Agents noticed foot sign on US-277 in Val Verde Co. The Agents located four

subjects approximately 150 yds north of US-277. The subjects admitted to being in the

US illegally. Agents searched the area where the subjects had been hiding, and

discovered four bundles of marijuana weighing 302.9 lbs. The DEA took custody of the

subjects and contraband.


Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment

During this reporting period, there was an increase of 94 lbs in the total amount of marijuana

seized, although the total continues to be lower than normal for this period. This same period last

year, there were approximately 2,200 lbs of marijuana seized. It is unknown if the change in the

weather patterns and less rainfall might have affected the spring harvest, or if the marijuana

seizures by Mexican Military have depleted the stockpiles in this area. There were no cocaine

seizures this reporting period, after significant seizures for the last five weeks in a row.

Eagle Pass POE Bridge 1 has been very active with Southbound operations this reporting period,

with currency, weapons and a stolen vehicle recovery. There was a significant currency seizure of

$549,950 USD. The destination of the currency is unknown at this time; however, it is suspected to

have been en-route to the Zetas. There was a weapon seizure (10 long guns and one handgun) at

POE Bridge 1. DPS-CID working outbound with CBP-OFO A-TCET, USBP, Maverick Co SO, and

Eagle Pass PD-Auto Theft personnel, apprehended a stolen Hummer II (VIN switch).

DPS-THP Brownwood made a significant cash seizure last week that is connected to the Del Rio

Sector. With the POE seizure, the seizure in Brownwood, and a third seizure in South Carolina on

31 MAR 2011, the total seized was approx $1.5 million USD. There are indications that all of these

seizures are related to the same Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO).


W E B B

J I MH O G G

D U V A L

Z A P A T A

L A S A L L E

F R I O


LAREDO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR11 – 17 MAY 2011


Jim Hogg CO SOLa Salle CO SO Webb CO SO Zapata CO SO Dilley PD Laredo PDPearsall PD

CBP ICE TPWDTMFDPSDuval CO S O Frio CO SO



Laredo SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 2

Bailouts 3

Criminal Arrests 17

Fugitive Arrests 2


Pursuits 1

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 41

IAs/USBP 588

OTMs 106

OTM Countries

Brazil 5

Colombia 4

Dominican Republic 3

Ecuador 8

El Salvador 13

Guatemala 26

Honduras 38

India 8

Nicaragua 1

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 1,150.51lbs

Cocaine 0.18 lbs

Heroin 0.09 lbs


Currency $694,576.00

Other: Xanax pills 131

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 0

Magazine(s) 0


Stolen 10

Recovered 4


Laredo Sector


$0 $0 $0

$694,576

$0

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

$700,000

$800,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Se

ize

d

Laredo UC Currency Seizures

3,131.42

1,952.20

2,662.60

1,150.51

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

3,500.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Laredo UC Marijuana Seizures

11.56

59.27

24.56

0.180.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

70.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Laredo UC Cocaine Seizures

552

932

655

588

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Laredo UC Illegal Aliens


Gang activity

HPL – 1 Mara Salvatruchas (MS-13) - 1

Mexican Mafia - 1 Texas Syndicate - 1

On 14 MAY 2011, USBP Cotulla Agents

working the Gardendale MOPAC Railroad, IH-

35 near Gardendale, TX, apprehended a male

Honduran identified as a MARA

SALVATRUCHA (MS-13) gang member. The

subject was processed for removal. The

subject’s criminal history includes: Simple

Assault – Washington D.C. PD, No

Disposition Immigration. History: Two prior

apprehensions.Jorge Danilo CELAYA-VALLE DOB 08/03/1981

On 09 MAY 2011, Laredo PD Officers arrested a male subject for Evading with Motor

Vehicle and Theft of Motor Vehicle. The subject was identified as a MEXICAN MAFIA

gang member and was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.

On 09 MAY 2011, Laredo PD Officers arrested a male subject for possession of

control substance. The Officers recovered 0.01 lbs of Cocaine from the scene. The

subject was identified as a TEXAS SYNDICATE gang member and was remanded to

Webb Co. Jail.

Known gang type apprehensions this reporting period:



Southbound operations

On 13 MAY 2011, CBP/OFO Officers and USBP Agents working

"Operation Cooperation" at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge POE 2, Laredo,

TX, initiated a secondary inspection on a red 1998 Mitsubishi Montero

driven by a male subject. The agents seized $600,146 USD

concealed in the spare tire. Subject, vehicle, and currency were

turned over to ICE. The currency was being transported from

Houston, TX, to San Luis Potosi, MX.

On 13 MAY 2011, CID Agents with assistance of THP Troopers and

Zapata Co SO, working a joint Border Star Operation targeting

gang and cartel members, conducted a traffic stop on a male

subject on US-83 south of SH-16 in Zapata, TX. The subject was

indentified as a HERMANOS PISTOLEROS LATINOS (HPL) gang

member subsequently released.

Gang activity (cont)


Texas Military Forces – Counter Drug AVN:

TMF UH-72 responded to a bail-out on IH-35 where 11 apprehensions were made.

TMF OH-58 patrolled south Laredo and effected the turn back of 12 subjects to Mexico, two

apprehensions, and one abscond.

TMF OH-58 flew in support of the USBP BORTAC team in north and west Laredo resulting in

four apprehensions, and three turn-backs at the Kirk Douglas Hill and Mines Rd. intersection.


On 14 MAY 2011, CBP/OFO Officers working at the

Lincoln Juarez Bridge in Laredo, TX, seized 28.80

liters of liquid methamphetamine concealed inside

Corona beer bottles. The two females (USC),

passengers on a Mexican taxi, were arrested.ANALYST NOTE: This is the third seizure of narcotics in

liquid form concealed in Corona beer bottles in the Laredo

Sector and the second involving Mexican taxis.

Blankenslip, Martha

Meagan

DOB 05/31/1990

USC out of Georgia

Myers, Mandi Ann

DOB 09/03/1991

USC out of Georgia


On 10 MAY 2011, Webb Co Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a white 2005 Chevy

Cavalier in the 1900 block of S. Meadow in Laredo, TX. After obtaining verbal consent from

both the male driver and passenger, the Deputy discovered 0.012 lbs of cocaine within the

middle console. Both male subjects were remanded to Webb Co Jail.


• On 11 MAY 2011, a traffic stop on a 2009 Dodge Ram pickup on FM-649 near

Hebbronville, TX. The troopers observed signs of criminal activity and the search of

passenger revealed 0.01 lbs of crack cocaine concealed within the socks. The subject

was arrested.

THP Trooper(s) conducted:

• On 11 MAY 2011, a traffic stop on a 2009 Dodge Ram on El Tecolote Ranch Rd in

Hebbronville, TX. The Trooper observed signs of criminal activity and requested consent

to search from the two male subjects. The trooper discovered 0.01 lbs of heroin

concealed within the driver's sock. Both subjects were arrested and the vehicle was

seized.

• On 13 MAY 2011, a traffic stop on a 2003 Hyundai Tiburon on IH-35 mm 73 near Cotulla,

TX. Both the driver and passenger had conflicting stories. A service K-9 alerted to the

vehicle and a search by the Troopers revealed $91,660 USD concealed in a grocery bag

behind the front passenger seat.




On 15 MAY 2011, THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 1997 Ford pickup traveling

on IH-35S near Laredo, TX. The Ford pickup was pulling a flatbed trailer with fencing

materials. The Trooper discovered and seized $2,770 USD concealed on the driver.

After a K-9 alert, the material on the trailer was searched and 14 of 21 wooden fence

posts were found have to hollow compartments. No contraband was discovered, but it

is believed that this was to be a concealment method for future smuggling attempts.

The driver and passenger were released.



• On 13 MAY 2011, working a joint Border Star Operation targeting gang

and cartel members, executed a felony warrant on a male subject for a

Parole Violation on TX-16 at Jim Hogg Co/Zapata Co Line. The male

subject was arrested and remanded to Zapata Co Jail.



Criminal Mischief in Zapata. The male subject was arrested and

remanded to Zapata Co Jail.



Criminal Mischief in Zapata. The male subject was arrested and

remanded to Zapata Co. Jail.

DPS CID Agents with the assistance of DPS/THP Troopers and Zapata Co SO deputies:

Pearsall PD Officers initiated a traffic stop on a Silver 2008 Pontiac Sedan at the intersection

of Power Plant Rd and CR-1058. The officer searched the driver and passenger and seized a

total of 131 Xanax pills concealed in the groin area. Both subjects were arrested and

charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute. The vehicle was impounded.

On 17 MAY 2011, Laredo PD Narcotics Division, assisted by the Patrol Division, seized

approximately 40 lbs of cocaine roughly 2 miles west of Laredo PD HQ. The investigation is

ongoing.


• On 05 MAY 2011, a male subject for possession of controlled substance. Officers

discovered 0.02 lbs of heroin at the scene. The subject was remanded to Webb

Co Jail.


• On 07 MAY 2011, a male for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of

Controlled Substance (cocaine). Officers recovered 1.41 lbs of marijuana and

0.01 lbs cocaine from the scene. The subject was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.

• On 09 May, a male subject for Possession of Controlled Substance (Heroin).

Narcotics Investigators located 0.07 lbs of heroin at the scene. The subject was

remanded to Webb Co. Jail.

• On 09 May, a male subject for possession of controlled substance. The Narcotics

Investigators located .125 lbs of cocaine and a Glock 17 (9mm handgun) at

the scene. Subject was remanded to Webb Co. Jail.

Laredo PD Officers arrested:

USBP Laredo South Agents Working the riverbanks near

El Cenizo, TX, seized 68.8 lbs of abandoned marijuana. The

marijuana was turned over to DEA.


• On 14 MAY 2011, tracking a group on the Paul Garza Property near Riverhill Dr, Laredo,

TX, seized 72.2 lbs of abandoned marijuana. The marijuana was turned over to DEA.

• On 12 May, initiated a vehicle stop on a 1999 Maroon Chevrolet Tahoe on Mines Rd

approximately ten miles north of Laredo, TX. The driver refused to stop and USBP

Agents were forced to terminate the chase. Texas Military Forces – Counter Drug

Aviation assisted in following the vehicle until vehicle wrecked at the intersection of S.

Wilhelm Ave & Ventura St. The driver and passenger bailed out but were apprehended

by nearby USBP Agents. The search of the vehicle revealed 327.2 lbs of marijuana.

The driver and contraband were turned over to DEA and the vehicle was turned over to

Laredo PD. The passenger was a minor, and found to be in this country illegally. The

subject was granted voluntary return back to Mexico. The subject’s criminal history

includes: Aggravated Assault, Assault Causing Bodily Injury and Evading Arrest with

Vehicle.


USBP Laredo South Agents:

Pedro OCHOA Jr.

10/12/1983

• On 13 MAY 2011, working line watch duties near River Front St,

Laredo, TX, seized 58.0 lbs of abandoned marijuana. The

marijuana was turned over to DEA.


• On 13 MAY 2011, working the riverbanks on the Hereford Ranch near El Cenizo,

TX, encountered a group carrying bundles. The agents apprehended several male

Mexican Nationals and seized 174.9 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was turned

over to DEA. The subjects were processed for removal.

Jesus Pablo

Medina-Reyna

DOB 10/25/1967

Carlos Efren

Flores-Saucedo

DOB 02/21/1992

Jesus Angel

Gonzalez-Trevino

DOB 10/21/1992

USBP Laredo South Agents:


• On 14 May, working at the IH-35 Checkpoint encountered a Tractor-Trailer with

448 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was concealed under the mattress from

inside the tractor’s cab. The subject, contraband and vehicle were turned over to

DEA.

Ricardo Ortiz

DOB 04/03/1966



Laredo Unified Command Sector Assessment

The Laredo Unified Command had a decrease in marijuana, cocaine and heroin seizures this

period. Methamphetamine seizures remained at zero. After a three-week drought on currency

seizures, a total of $694,576 USD was seized for this reporting period.

Alien apprehensions decreased overall. Stolen vehicles increased from nine to ten and stolen

vehicles recovered decreased from eleven to four.

Several smaller marijuana loads were seized this week, ranging from 50 to less than 500 lbs. The

largest marijuana load this week was 448 lbs. Laredo PD seized 40 lbs of cocaine; however, due to

an ongoing investigation, details are limited.

Significant currency seizures this reporting period included $600,146 USD by CBP/OFO and

USBP, working outbound ―Operation Cooperation,‖ at the Lincoln-Juarez Bridge, Laredo, TX. THP

seized $91,660 on IH-35, MM 73, near Cotulla, TX. THP also had a smaller currency seizure of

$2,770 USD, discovered on the person of a male subject. This subject was driving a Ford pickup

towing a flatbed trailer with fencing material. Fourteen of the 21 fence posts had hollowed ends,

believed to be used for smuggling contraband.


K E N E D Y

S T A R R

H I D A L G O

W I L L A C Y

C A M E R O N

B R O O K S

RIO GRANDE VALLEY UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR11 – 17 MAY 2011


USBPCBP – OFOICE USCG Starr CO HIDTADPSTPWD TMFUS Fish and WildlifeCameron CO SOHidalgo CO SOKenedy CO SOStarr CO SOWillacy CO SOBrownsville PD Edinburg PDHarlingen PD Hidalgo PD

La Grulla PD La Joya PDMercedes PDMission PD Palmview PDPalmhurst PDPenitas PD Pharr PDPort Isabel PDRaymondville PDRio Grande City PDRoma PD San Benito PD San Juan PDWeslaco PDUniv of Texas-Pan

American (UTPA) PD Univ of Texas-

Brownsville (UTB) PD




Rio Grande Valley SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 2

Bailouts 9

Criminal Arrests 52

Fugitive Arrests 7


Pursuits 13

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 25

IAs/USBP 905

OTMs 449

OTM Countries

Nicaragua 1

Dominican Republic 3

El Salvador 127

Guatemala 111

Honduras 102

India 31

Ecuador 5

Peru 1

Bosnia 1

China 24

Colombia 3

Romania 21

Sri Lanka 2

Kosovo 1

Nigeria 1

Albania 4

Costa Rica 1

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 35,763.95 lbs

Cocaine 118.14 lbs

Heroin 0 lbs


Currency $ 180,369.00

Other 0

Weapons

Handgun(s) 3

Long Gun(s) 5

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 2

Recovered 1


Rio Grande Valley Sector


750

703

1,536

905

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

1,400

1,600

1,800

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

RGV UC Illegal Aliens

20.76

75.85

123.59118.14

0.00

20.00

40.00

60.00

80.00

100.00

120.00

140.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

RGV UC Cocaine Seizures

38,381.78

28,155.13

31,276.68

35,763.95

0.00

5,000.00

10,000.00

15,000.00

20,000.00

25,000.00

30,000.00

35,000.00

40,000.00

45,000.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

RGV UC Marijuana Seizures

$872,083

$2,455

$255,059

$180,369

$0

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

$700,000

$800,000

$900,000

$1,000,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Se

ize

d

RGV UC Currency Seizures


Vallucos Hermanos Pistoleros Po’ Boys Sureno 13

Mexican Mafia Paisa Latin Kings

Loco Trece La Buena Vista Hood

Gang activity

The Hidalgo Co SO Gang Intelligence Unit reported 31 gang member arrests this reporting period. These

arrests were made by 11 different agencies in the RGV sector. The gang members were arrested for

offenses such as: parole violation, theft of property, driving while intoxicated, possession of marijuana in

drug free zone, aggravated assault causes serious bodily injury, unlawful possession of firearm by a felon,

aggravated robbery, possession of controlled substance, contempt child support, evading arrest, no driver

license, expired license plates, theft, unauthorized use of motor vehicle, theft from person, accident report

false information, escape while arrested, federal inmate, assault on public servant and interfering with

public duties. The arrestees have gang affiliation with:

The Pharr PD in conjunction with CBP are conducting Southbound Operations at the Pharr International

Bridge from 0500hrs thru 0100hrs (20-hour span).

Southbound Operations

USBP Agents, assisted by DPS Air 108 providing border security in Tier

1 Operations, searched for several suspects near the District 6 canal.

Utilizing the Wes Cam (FLIR), the Aircrew located groups in several

areas and near District 6 and guided USBP Agents to their location.

Approximately 25 suspects were apprehended, and more than 10

suspects fled back to Mexico.



USBP Agents tracked approximately 20 subjects

believed to be illegal aliens in the Chimney Park area.

DPS Air 148 utilizing the FLIR and NVGs, assisted the

Agents with the apprehension of 12 illegal aliens.

USBP Agents at the Falfurrias Checkpoint rescued 12 illegal immigrants sweltering in a

cargo truck with no ventilation. Agents found the illegal immigrants hidden behind a load of

furniture. One person was taken to the hospital for heat exhaustion. The driver was turned

over to authorities. The immigrants will be processed and sent back to their home countries.


CBP Officers at the Brownsville B&M Bridge inspected an inbound 2007 Ford Fusion with Mexico license

plates driven by a male Mexican citizen. A secondary inspection revealed 22.7 lbs of cocaine concealed

in the firewall-center console area. The driver was arrested and vehicle was seized.

Concealment

located in console



• At the Pharr POE inspected an inbound 2000 Freightliner with utility

trailer with Mexico license plates driven by a male Mexican citizen. A

secondary inspection revealed 1,532.2 lbs of marijuana concealed

between a shipment of limes. The vehicle was seized.

• At the Brownsville Gateway Bridge inspected an outbound 2003 Ford Taurus with

Florida license plates, driven by a male USC. A secondary inspection revealed five

rifles and two handguns wrapped in foil concealed in the trunk of the vehicle. The

driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized.

CBP Officers:




Starr County SO Investigators attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a white Chevrolet Tahoe

on FM-490 near the Starr/Hidalgo county line. The driver of the Tahoe refused to stop and

pursuit ensued. Once the vehicle stopped, Investigators searched the vehicle and found

361.6 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 30 bundles. Officers arrested the driver and seized the

vehicle.

Starr Co SO Investigators along with ICE Agents secured an open field located behind a

residence located at the intersection of Escobares Rd and Kelly Ln. Upon securing the field,

Officers and Agents located 2,765.8 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 239 bundles concealed

inside two chicken coups.




Starr Co SO Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a green Ford F-250 on FM-1430 in

Rio Grande City, TX. The driver refused to stop and a pursuit ensued, but ended within a

quarter mile. Deputies took one male subject into custody. Upon inspection of the vehicle,

Deputies found a cell phone, a blue life jacket, and 1,540.4 lbs of marijuana in the

passenger seat, back seat area and bed of the vehicle. The vehicle was seized.

Starr Co SO Investigators received information of a white Ford F-250 loaded with several

bundles of marijuana. Investigators found the vehicle at a CITGO gasoline station on US-83.

The investigators approached the vehicle but did not find any subjects. Upon securing the

vehicle, Investigators found 708.2 lbs of marijuana wrapped in several bundles.



Starr Co So Deputy received an anonymous call from a citizen who reported that narcotics were

being stored in an apartment. The Deputy, Escobares PD, and a CBP Officer with a K-9 responded

to the apartment in Escobares, TX. The resident denied consent to search of the apartment. The

Deputy then made contact with another resident who stated that her husband had rented two

apartments for storing marijuana. The CBP K-9 Officer conducted a free air search to which the K-9

alerted to the two suspect apartments and three vehicles in the parking lot. The Deputy then

executed a search warrant. A total of 933.8 lbs of marijuana was found in the two apartments and

the male subject was arrested.

• Executed a search warrant at a residence in Roma, TX. During a search of the

residence, Officers located a total of 872.2 lbs of marijuana. Officers also seized a

gray 2000 Plymouth vehicle.

• Assisted Starr Co SO and ICE Agents in executing a search

warrant at a residence in Roma. Officers conducted a free air

search of the garage area and a K-9 alerted to narcotics. Officers

and Agents searched the residence and located a total of 787.6

lbs of marijuana wrapped in 74 bundles.

Roma PD:




Brownsville PD responded to the 1200 block of Anita Ct., where Officers found several

bundles of marijuana. Officers seized 34.54 lbs of marijuana and arrested one male

subject.

USBP Agents patrolling near Chimney

Park in Mission observed a body

floating in the river and notified Mission

PD. Officers retrieved the body of a

teenage male subject. USBP Agents

stated they had attempted to stop a raft

two days earlier in the same area,

when the raft occupants fled to Mexico.

It is suspected that the drowning victim

had been one of the occupants.

Mission PD Officers and Hidalgo Co SO Deputies assigned to the narcotic taskforce

unit attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a blue 2006 Chevrolet Impala. The vehicle

left a residence, where it was believed to have picked up narcotics. The driver refused

to stop and a pursuit ensued. Following the short pursuit, the driver of the vehicle pulled

into a convenience store on the corner of Closner & Trenton Rd. Where the driver and

passenger were then detained. Upon inspection of the vehicle, Officers discovered a

Rock Island .45 cal. handgun hidden underneath the front passenger seat. Officers also

found one bundle weighing 2.47 lbs of cocaine on the driver seat. Both subjects were

arrested and transported to the Mission PD.



Hidalgo Co SO Deputies conducted a search of a suspected drug stash house. The house was

filled with thousands of lbs of marijuana, a shrine devoted to Santa Muerte, and an empty box of

AK-47 ammo. Inside they found every room filled with bundles of marijuana. The 515 bundles

weighed 7,553 lbs and filled the beds of five pickup trucks. Hidalgo Co SO stated that several

people live in the home but no one was home at the time of the raid. During the search of the

house, deputies found bricks and presses used to compress the bundles of marijuana. The empty

box of AK-47 ammo was found on the ground in the backyard.

Statue of Santa Muerte



Rio Grande City PD Officer observed a white 1992 Nissan passenger car on Happy

Alley, off of East St., being loaded with what appeared to be marijuana. The Officer

approached the vehicle and found 160.2 lbs of marijuana in several bundles, sitting

next to the vehicle.

Rio Grande City PD Officer conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2004 Chevrolet van on

N. Charco Blanco Rd. The Officer made contact with the driver and received consent to

search the vehicle. The Officer found 224 lbs of marijuana wrapped in three large

bundles inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested and vehicle was seized.

Pharr PD K-9 assisted ICE Agents in conducting a free air search

on six suspicious packages and four black suitcases found at a

residence. A K-9 alerted to all packages and suitcases. Agents

discovered 443 lbs of marijuana inside the six packages and

43.85 lbs of cocaine inside the four suitcases.

THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a

1999 Ford Ranger on US-281 near San

Manuel (Lat: 26.700000, Long: -98.112000),

destined for Corpus Christi. The Trooper

made contact with the driver and detected

criminal indicators and signs of nervousness.

A consensual search of the vehicle revealed

47 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 21 bundles

concealed inside the gas tank.


DPS Air 117 conducted surveillance of a suspected weapons transporter

from central Texas to south Texas. Prior suspicious activities prompted

investigators to launch an investigation. The suspect purchased

weapons at a sporting goods business in central Texas and transported the

purchased weapons to south Texas. ATF Agents in conjunction with DPS conducted a

traffic stop on the suspect vehicle, a GMC Yukon, and found the suspect in possession

of two assault rifles, three pistols, one .45 cal pistol and $7,400 USD. Upon contact

with the driver and passenger, a confession was provided to Officers stating the

weapons were being transferred to drug trafficking organizations in Mexico. The

weapons, cash and vehicle were all seized and the suspect was arrested on felony

weapons smuggling charges.

DPS Air 108 providing border security flight in Tier 1 Operations assisted THP

Troopers with a pursuit on FM-681 and Moorefield Rd. The Troopers advised

that the suspect fled from the vehicle on foot in a northeasterly direction. The

vehicle contained approximately 500 lbs of marijuana seized by Troopers.

DPS Air 108 was advised of THP Trooper involved in a pursuit on FM-490

near the Hidalgo/Starr Co Line and had turned south on a gravel road.

While en-route, aircrew was advised that multiple subjects had bailed out

of the vehicle and were headed southeast. The Aircrew arrived on scene

and began searching the area, locating four subjects hiding in the brush.

The Troopers were guided to location and detained all four subjects.

Subjects were turned over to the custody of USBP Agents.




• Engaged in a pursuit on FM-490 in Starr Co. The

suspect led Troopers on a pursuit through a series of

country roads and crossed into Hidalgo Co. The pursuit

ended near Monte Cristo Road north of Alton where the

driver bailed out and fled into an orange grove.

Troopers, Hidalgo Co SO Deputies, and DPS Air 108

searched the area for the suspect but were unable to

locate him. Inspection of the vehicle revealed 800 lbs of

marijuana.

THP Trooper(s) :


• Conducted a traffic stop on a 1999 Ford F-150 on FM-681 south of FM-490 near

McCook (Lat: 26.4568300, Long: -98.3233300), for speeding and disregarding a stop

sign. As the Trooper approached vehicle on passenger side, the vehicle drove away and

a pursuit ensued. The vehicle traveled southbound on FM-681 and crashed into a dirt

embankment. The driver of the vehicle absconded. The Trooper conducted an

inspection of the vehicle and found 690 lbs of marijuana wrapped in 30 bundles in the

floor boards, back seat, toolbox and bed of the vehicle.



• Conducted a traffic stop on a tractor truck that appeared to be carrying bags of

cement on US-281 and Monte Cristo. A K-9 free air search revealed 796 lbs of

marijuana concealed between and under the bags. The driver was apprehended

and questioned.


• Conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Ford pickup near Alto Bonito. The Trooper

made contact with the driver and observed extreme nervousness who gave an

implausible reason for travel. A consent to search was requested and granted. The

Trooper conducted a search of the vehicle and found $180,369 USD wrapped in air

tight food saver plastic bags located inside a 5-gallon hydraulic fluid bucket. The

currency and vehicle were seized.

THP Trooper:


The RGV Unified Command agencies were responsible for the seizure of over 35,000 lbs of

marijuana, a 14% increase from last week. Cocaine seizures remained about the same from last

week to a combined agency total of 118.14 lbs. There were no Methamphetamine or Heroin

seizures for the week. Currency decreased to a total of $180,369 USD. The US Border Patrol, CBP

OFO, DPS Aviation, DPS THP and CID, Starr Co. SO, Roma PD, Rio Grande City PD, Hidalgo Co

SO, Pharr PD, Mission PD, CBP Air and Marine, and Brownsville PD contributed significantly to the

narcotic seizures.

Illegal Alien apprehensions decreased for the reporting period down from 1,536 to 905 this week.

The OTM count also decreased from last week by 4% for a total of 449.

The RGV Unified Command came together to jointly address a significant incident involving USBP

agents who came under fire along the river. Within a matter of hours, DPS Regional Commander

executed Tier I operations and agencies responded with a significant force to engage any and all

smuggling and other criminal activity in the targeted area. The LEA surge was successful in that

narcotic smuggling ceased in the area of the enhancement and only a few IAs were encountered

during the Tier I operation. The USBP International Liaison Unit made contact with the Mexican

Military and those forces engaged by patrolling the south side of the river.

Confrontations between the Mexican Military and the Gulf Cartel and Zetas continued during this

past week. The streets of Mexican cities such as Nuevo Guerrero, Reynosa, and Matamoros were

scenes of running gun battles. It is currently unknown whether DTO members were arrested or

became casualties. The Mexican Military continues to respond to calls by US agencies to patrol

along the Rio Grande River in an effort to capture southbound criminals.

RGV JOIC Sector Assessment


K L E B E R G

N U E C E S

J I MW

E L LS

B E E

L I V EO A K

G O L I A D

D e W I T T

L A V A C A

R E F U G I O

A R A N S A S

W H A R T O N

M A T A G O R D A

B R O O K S


COASTAL BEND UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR11 – 17 MAY 2011


USBPCBP – OFO ICEFBI ATFDEAUSCGTPWDHouston HIDTASan Antonio HIDTATMFDPSAransas CO SOBee CO SOBrooks CO SODewitt CO SOGoliad CO SOJackson CO SOJim Wells CO SOKarnes CO SO

Kleberg CO SOLavaca CO SOMatagorda CO SO Live Oak CO SO McMullen CO SONueces CO SO Refugio CO SOSan Patricio CO SOVictoria CO SOWharton CO SOBay City PDCorpus Christi PDDriscoll PDEl Campo PDKingsville PDOrange Grove PDSeguin PDThree Rivers PDVictoria PD



Coastal Bend SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 36

Bailouts 7

Criminal Arrests 302

Fugitive Arrests 160


Pursuits 8

Scouts/Decoys 1


IAs/Referrals 40

IAs/USBP 0

OTMs 1OTM Countries Honduras 1

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 14.14 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs

Methamphetamine 0.01 lbs

Currency $ 762,546.00

Other

Xanax – 10 pills,

Soma – 1 pill,

Hydrocodone – 2 pills

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 2

Recovered 6


Coastal Bend SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

IAs apprehended in the Coastal Bend

JOIC Sector and reported by USBP

Stations Kingsville, Corpus Christi and

Falfurrias, are reported in the RGV JOIC

statistics due to the fact that above listed

USBP stations report to USBP Sector (Rio

Grande Valley) HQ in McAllen.

Referrals noted on the previous page are

IAs apprehended by Coastal Bend Unified

Command members (local and county)

that ultimately turn over their

apprehensions to USBP.

$13,594 $29,563

$139,976

$762,546

$0

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

$700,000

$800,000

$900,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Se

ize

d

Coastal Bend UC Currency Seizures

602.81

724.78

2,336.80

199.36

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Coastal Bend UC Marijuana Seizures

7.53

55.36

2.50

14.14

0.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Coastal Bend UC Cocaine Seizures


Gang Activity

Texas Syndicate 2

Mexican Mafia 3

Known gang type apprehensions this reporting week

Jim Wells Co SO assisted by the DPS Texas Ranger Division arrested two

MEXICAN MAFIA gang members on murder charges for the ―hit‖ ordered on

an individual over missing narcotics. This investigation is ongoing due to the

border nexus.

THP Guadalupe Co seized 0.440 lbs of

cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment

behind the glove box in a 2004 Ford F-150

pickup. One of the two male suspects is a

MEXICAN MAFIA gang member. The

suspects were traveling on IH-10E from San

Antonio, TX to Tampa, FL.

Compartment

behind glove box.


Robstown PD seized 72.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 1998

Dodge pickup. The male suspect, a TEXAS SYNDICATE (TS) gang member, was

traveling on US-77N from San Benito, TX, to Houston, TX. Two other occupants were

released and gang affiliation is unknown.

Marijuana concealed in gas tank

Gang Activity (cont)

Corpus Christi PD arrested a TEXAS SYNDICATE (TS) gang

member on murder charges for the shooting of three women in

Corpus Christi. The suspect shot the three women in a car, fatally

wounding the driver. The two women in the rear seat of the vehicle

died from their wounds at the hospital.


THP Task Force Brooks Co seized 36.5 lbs of marijuana concealed in the rear

quarter panels, rear passenger doors, and dash of a 2006 Dodge Stratus. The female

driver was traveling on FM-755N from Roma, TX, to Pasadena, TX. (JOIC Note: This

narrative is from last week. The pictures were obtained during this reporting cycle.)

THP Nueces Co seized 35.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the speaker box in the

trunk of a 2010 Honda Accord. Two male and one female suspects were traveling on

US-77N from Alamo, TX, to Tuscaloosa, AL.

Access to rear quarter panel.Concealment under dash

above glove box.




Robstown PD seized a vehicle modified to conceal and

transport narcotics. Robstown PD conducted a traffic stop

on the vehicle and during a search of the vehicle. During

the search, officers found several indicators that the

vehicle had been modified. Wires were discovered that led

to an electronic piston behind the rear passenger seat.

When activated, a trapdoor in the

Electronically controlled

smuggling

compartment.

Modifications to rear of passenger seats.

Electronic

piston.

Victoria Co SO seized 0.008 lbs of methamphetamine and closed a

meth lab that had been set up in rural Victoria Co. The Deputies were

alerted by the ranch owner who advised that people had been seen at

one of the ranch’s camp houses. Two male suspects were arrested and

materials for the manufacturing of methamphetamine were seized.

seat opened to reveal a

compartment for smuggling.

Investigation revealed the

suspect was returning from a

narcotics delivery.



• 68.6 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 2002 Ford F-250 pickup. One

male suspect was traveling on US-77N from Brownsville, TX, to Fort Wayne, IN.

Kleberg Co SO and USBP seized:

• 70.6 lbs of marijuana concealed in the spare tire and both rear passenger doors of

a 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV. Two male occupants were traveling on US-77N

from Brownsville, TX.

Marijuana concealed in the spare tire and door panels.

• 29.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in

the gas tank and rear quarter panels

of a 1999 Chevrolet Caviler. Two

male occupants were traveling on

US-77N from Brownsville, TX, to

Corpus Christi, TX.

• 4.23 lbs of marijuana concealed in a commercial bus passenger’s clothes. One

male suspect was traveling on US-77N.

• 0.97 lbs of marijuana concealed in the tailgate 2001 GMC Yukon SUV. One female

suspect was traveling on US-77N from Tamaulipas, MX to Selma, NC.CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE


• 102.8 lbs of marijuana concealed in the trailer of a tractor/trailer combination. The male

driver was traveling in a 2000 Kenworth truck/tractor towing a 1997 Frontier flatbed trailer

on US-77N from Harlingen, TX, to San Antonio, TX.

• 136.2 lbs of marijuana concealed in a trailer pulled by a 2004 Ford F-250 pickup. The

trailer was hauling a 1973 Ford Ranchero pickup. The male driver was traveling on US-

77N from Harlingen, TX, to Michigan.

Marijuana concealed

inside of trailer frame.

• 37.0 lbs of marijuana concealed in the dash board of a 1996 Pontiac

Trans Sport Mini-Van. The female driver was traveling on US-77N from

Brownsville, TX, to Louisiana.

Marijuana concealed

in dash.


Kleberg Co SO and U.S. Border Patrol seized:


Kleberg Co SO and USBP seized 23.8 lbs of marijuana concealed in the

rear quarter panels of a 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. The male driver was traveling

on US-77N from Weslaco, TX, to Corpus Christi, TX.

Kingsville PD Task Force seized $49,580 USD concealed in

a knee brace on each suspect. Two suspects both

concealed currency in this manner. One male suspect was

a resident of Tamaulipas, Mexico, and the female was a

USC. Both were traveling on US-77S from San Antonio, TX,

to Brownsville, TX.


Marijuana concealed inside rear quarter panels.

Kingsville PD Task Force

seized 13.22 lbs of cocaine

concealed in the radiator of a

Chevrolet Tahoe. The

female was traveling on

US-77N. The points of

origination and destination

are unknown.Bottom of sealed radiator Bundles of cocaine inside radiator.


CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSITIVE


Bundles of currency inside axle housing

Kingsville PD Task Force seized $248,000 USD concealed in secondary axle

housing on a 1999 Freightliner tractor truck towing a car hauler. Three

vehicles, the truck/tractor and car hauler were also seized. The driver was

traveling on US-77S. Points of origination and destination are unknown.





Kingsville PD seized 90 lbs of marijuana concealed

in the gas tank of a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup.

The male driver was traveling on US-77N. A female

occupant and a child were released.

Jim Wells Co SO seized $1,836 USD concealed in a bag found in a 2000 Chevrolet

Impala. During the search of the vehicle, smuggling compartments were located behind

the front fender wells running along the frame of the vehicle. The male suspect was

traveling on US-281S from Alice, TX, to Rio Grande City, TX.

Smuggling compartments

on both sides of the

vehicle.US VisaFerrari logo used by

cartel.

Analyst Note: Los Zetas members have

identified themselves with Ferrari logos.

The photo below is a Zeta member

assisting a suspected high level Zeta

member after DPS AVN turned back the

illegal crossing attempt.


Coastal Bend JOIC Sector Assessment

Marijuana seizures decreased significantly in the Coastal Bend Sector over the last reporting period

from 2,336.8 lbs to 199.36 lbs. Cocaine seizures increased from 2.51 lbs to 14.14 lbs.

Methamphetamine seizures decreased from 5.06 lbs to 0.01 lbs during this reporting period. Five

currency seizures totaling $762,546 USD was an increase from $122,857.70 USD reported last

week. Two large cash seizures which are part of an on-going investigation are not detailed in the

BOSA at the request of the investigating agencies.

IA referrals increased slightly from 36 to 40. OTM referrals, absconds, and gang-related criminal

arrests decreased this period. US-281S, US-77 N/S and IH-10E were the locations of large narcotic

and currency seizures.

A review of the Falfurrias Checkpoint (US-281N) reports revealed that between 10 MAY and 18

MAY 2011, there were 7,209.1 lbs of marijuana and no cocaine seized. This represents a decrease

from last week’s total of 14,321.2 lbs of marijuana seized. Three tractor trailers were seized

attempting to conceal large marijuana loads.

A review of the Sarita Checkpoint on US-77N for the same period, indicated 49.1 lbs of marijuana

and no cocaine seized. This was a decrease from last week’s total of 109.4 lbs of marijuana seized.

Two commercial buses were used to smuggle 7.1 lbs of marijuana. The marijuana was in luggage

on one bus, and on one passenger on the other bus. No tractor trailers were found to conceal

contraband materials.

Overall, marijuana and cocaine seizures were significantly reduced in the Coastal Bend Sector and

at the checkpoints which are a gateway to the Coastal Bend Sector.


StatewideCorridorSeizures

THP [Carson Co.] –• 57 lbs of marijuana & 242 grams of

cocaine – trunk; Alamogordo, NM to Tulsa, OK.

• 39 lbs of marijuana – trunk; Ukiah, CA to Florida.

• 11 lbs of marijuana – trunk; California to Florida.

CID [Harris Co.] –• 7.4 lbs of methamphetamine –

vehicle battery; McAllen, TX to Arkansas, AR.

THP [Atascosa Co.] –• 812 lbs of marijuana – bed of truck;

San Diego, CA to San Antonio, TX.• 65 lbs of marijuana – PVC pipes; La

Villa, TX to Austin, TX.

THP [Hopkins Co.] –• 3 Kg of cocaine – quarter panel;

Laredo, TX to Texarkana, TX.• $298,488 USD – luggage;

Louisville, KY to Duncanville, TX.

THS [Kaufman Co.] –• 30 lbs of marijuana, 0.58 lbs

of cocaine & 16 Hydrocodone tablets – ice chest and clothing; Dallas, TX to Terrell, TX.

THP [Ellis Co.] –• 3.31 lbs of methamphetamine –

factory storage area under back seat; Waco, TX to Dallas, TX.

CID [Parker Co.] –• $91,900 USD & 4 lbs of

marijuana – false compartment in trailer; Houston, TX to Paradise, TX.

THP [Chambers Co.] –• $212,285 USD, 16 grams of

marijuana & 1.3 grams of crack cocaine – body carriage and luggage; Oakland Park, FL to Houston, TX.


THP [Hill Co.] –• 71.5 grams of crack cocaine & 3.5

grams of marijuana – glove compartment; Dallas, TX to Waco, TX.

THP [Oldham Co.] –• 62.2 lbs of marijuana – trunk; Phoenix,

AZ to Oklahoma City, OK.• 3.0 lbs of marijuana – trunk; Monte

Rio, CA to Nashville, TN.

CID [Jefferson Co.] –• 1,075 lbs of marijuana – trailer;

Houston, TX to North Carolina.


9 MAY 2011: THP Tyler conducted a

traffic stop on a 2002 Lincoln LS,

bearing LA registration, and arrested

two subjects. A probable cause

search revealed $28,950 USD,

concealed inside a cologne box

located under the passenger seat.

The money was traveling from

Monroe, LA, to Dallas, TX.

14 MAY 2011: THP Abilene conducted a traffic stop on a 2003 Lincoln

Navigator, bearing TX registration, and arrested two subjects. A

consent to search revealed $21,071 USD concealed in a natural

void behind the glove box. The money was traveling from

Lubbock, TX, to Fort Worth, TX.



12 MAY 2011: DPS-CID Weatherford received information regarding individuals involved in

a marijuana smuggling operation. A truck and trailer were identified, and a THP Weatherford

Trooper conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle. The stop resulted in the initial arrest of the

driver for a DWI. With the assistance of Parker Co SO and Weatherford PD, a probable cause

search revealed $91,900 USD and 4 lbs of marijuana, concealed inside a false

compartment inside the trailer. The contraband was traveling from Houston, TX, to Paradise, TX.

13 MAY 2011: THP McKinney conducted a traffic stop on a 2005

Chevrolet Silverado, bearing LA registration. A consent to search

revealed a small Ziploc bag containing a white powder. The driver and

passenger were arrested and a subsequent search revealed

30, one-lb bundles of marijuana and 16 Hydrocodone

pills hidden in an ice chest. The narcotics were traveling from

Dallas, TX, to Shreveport, LA.


13 MAY 2011: DPS-CID Houston received information regarding a possible load driving through

Houston in a 2002 Ford Mustang bearing AR registration. The vehicle was located and observed

meeting with another vehicle and switching vehicle batteries. Houston PD conducted a traffic stop

on the suspect vehicle. A written consent to search revealed 6 bundles of

methamphetamine, totaling 7.4 lbs, concealed in the car battery. Two subjects were

arrested. The meth originated in McAllen, TX, and was destined for Little Rock, AR.



14 MAY 2011: THP Jourdanton

conducted a traffic stop on a 1994

Nissan Quest, bearing TX registration,

and arrested one subject. A consent to

search revealed 65 lbs of

marijuana, concealed inside four

PVS pipes located under the second

row seats. The marijuana was traveling

from La Villa, TX, to Austin, TX.

18 MAY 2011: THP Jourdanton

conducted a traffic stop on a

2011 GMC Sierra, bearing TX

registration, and arrested one

subject. A search revealed

812 lbs of marijuana,

revealed in plain view

throughout the vehicle and bed

of the truck. The marijuana was

traveling from San Diego, CA,

to San Antonio, TX.



13 MAY 2011: THP Cotulla , with the assistance of US CBP, conducted a traffic stop on a

2003 Hyundai Tiburon, bearing TX registration. A consent to search revealed $91,660

USD in a grocery bag, behind the front passenger seat. The money was traveling from

Dallas, TX, to Laredo, TX.



10 MAY 2011: THP Borger conducted a traffic stop on a 2001 Mazda

MPV, bearing CA registration, and arrested one subject. A consent to

search revealed $29,020 USD, concealed inside a false compartment

built into the floor, under the rear seats. The money was traveling from

Dayton, OH, to Whittier, CA.

13 MAY 2011: THP Vega, with the assistance of Oldham Co SO,

conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Nissan Altima, bearing NV

registration, and arrested one subject. A consent to search

revealed 62.2 lbs of marijuana in duffle bags in the trunk

of the vehicle. The marijuana was traveling from Phoenix, AZ, to

Oklahoma City, OK.



SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICOSIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICO


AND CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA


SINALOA – Sinaloa’s Attorney General announced the arrest 15 MAY 2011 of a top

leader of ―Los Mazatlecos,‖ the faction of the Beltran Leyva cartel operating in

northern Sinaloa, in the port city of Mazatlan in southern Sinaloa and in Tepic, the

state capitol of Nayarit. Geovany Lizárraga Ontiveros, ―el Desaparecido,‖ was

detained in the pre-dawn hours of 15 MAY 2011 in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, in an

operation headed by the recently deployed elite rapid reaction squad of the state

ministerial police. The suspect offered no resistance during his arrest. Lizárraga

Ontiveros is alleged to be the leader of the Los Mochis cell of los Mazatlecos, whose

stronghold is in the Los Mochis-Guasave area of northern Sinaloa, and is a top

Significant Events in Mexico

lieutenant of Fausto Isidro Meza Flores ―El Chapo Isidro,‖ identified as the

head of the Mazatlecos. Los Mazatlecos are bitter rivals of the Sinaloa

cartel and are rumored to be allies of Los Zetas. Geovany Lizárraga was

traveling alone in an armored pick-up at the the time of his arrest. After his

arrest the suspect was immediately transported to the headquarters of the

Mexican Army’s 89 Infantry Battalion in Los Mochis.

According to police reports the convoy transporting the suspect came

under fire from gunmen in at least one pickup on federal highway 15 in a

rescue attempt that was repulsed by state police and military

reinforcements on the way to the military facility. Three civilians were

caught in the crossfire on the highway and injured. Two of the

wounded travelers, Antonio and Jorge Pérez Orizaba, were identified

as U.S. citizens returning from a visit to see family in Michoacan. Two

ministerial police officers in the convoy were injured by shrapnel and are

reported in stable condition.

The state Attorney General’s office also released the images of other Los Mazatlecos cell leaders that

Lizárraga reportedly identified during his initial interrogation in the Army headquarters.


DURANGO – Police found nine bodies over the weekend next to the bull ring in Durango city, the

capital of the like-named northern Mexican state, the Public Safety Secretariat said. The bodies of

the nine men were found on the morning of 15 MAY 2011 in a street by the bull ring in the city’s San

Ignacio district. The investigation is ongoing, but the Mexican media reported that the men were

killed by an organized crime A total of 218 bodies have been found in mass graves in Durango city

since early April. Investigators suspect that the killings may have been carried out by the Sinaloa,

Los Zetas and Beltran Leyva drug cartels, Mexican media reported. The mass graves in Durango

have now yielded more bodies than those in the northeastern

state of Tamaulipas, where 183 bodies were found in the city of

San Fernando. The majority of the bodies discovered in Durango

city were in the Las Fuentes neighborhood. The Sinaloa cartel,

Mexico’s oldest and largest drug trafficking organization, has been

trying to gain control of Durango, the press reported. Durango,

one of the states most affected by drug-related violence, is

reported to be the hiding place of Sinaloa cartel boss Joaquin ―El

Chapo‖ (Shorty) Guzman.


SINALOA – Late on 11 May 2011, a group of gunmen attacked and killed a family of five. This

attack occurred while the family was traveling along a dirt road near the Pilas and Brasil villages of

Choix [26.708238,-108.325281], Sinaloa. The victims were identified as follows: Enen Yacira (no

last name), 9 months old; Ana Teresa Avedaño, 19 (mother of the infant); Manuel Soto Urias, 25;

Eliseo Blanco Mariscal, 25; and Marcos Adolfo Blanco Mariscal, 17. No information regarding the

motive behind this attack was reported.


SINALOA – On 11 May 2011 at approximately 2300 hours, three Grupo Elite Agents were attacked

by a group of hitmen outside the Police Station in Los Mochis [25.790927,-108.991756], Sinaloa.

Agent Martin Ramos Torres was killed, while two other agents were seriously wounded. Following

the attack, the gunmen abandoned two vehicles and their weapons, and managed to escape.

Those items left behind were identified as: a Tacoma van, a Nissan Rogue, one AK-47, two AR-15s,

multiple magazines, tactical equipment, and dozens of rounds of ammo.

CD. JUAREZ – Intelligence operations conducted by federal police in the San Jose

neighborhood [31.714222,-106.442885], of Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, led to the

arrest of Francisco OCAÑA Loranca, 36, (also known as Francisco Javier OCANA

Loranca). This individual was identified as a Los Flacos kidnapping gang

member accused of having participated in multiple kidnappings to include a taxi

driver on February 2010 in Mexico State. Additional information about Los Flacos

kidnapping gang was reported in this article is as follows: They commonly target

MICHOACAN – On 10 May 2011, the body of an unidentified male murder victim was recovered

located along the Apatzingan-Cuatro Caminos highway in Michoacán. A narco message was left on

top of the body that read as follows: ―This goes to all the deserters and to those who switch gangs.

Sincerely, Los Caballeros Templarios.‖


businessmen. They operate in the following municipalities of Mexico State: Cuautitlan Izcalli,

Tultitlan, Tepozotlan, Coacalco, Tlalnepantla, and Atizapan de Zaragoza. The gang is linked to at

least nine kidnapping cases. They are known to kill their victims, even after receiving a ransom.

Ransoms are exchanged at pedestrian bridges located along the Lecheria-Chamapa stretch of the

Mexico-Queretaro highway and along Jose Lopez Portillo Avenue. To date, 15 Los Flacos gang

members (to include Ocana) have been arrested.


Significant events in Mexico

CD. JUAREZ – On 10 MAY 2011, Mexican Federal Police on patrol in colonia

Jardines de Satélite observed a suspicious vehicle driving slowly through the

neighborhood. After stopping the blue Chevrolet pickup with Chihuahua license

plates, agents noticed several large metal tubes in the cargo compartment that led

to a search of the entire vehicle. Agents discovered 350 rectangular bundles of

marijuana within the vehicle. The bundles were wrapped in plastic and had a weight

of 168 kilos. The agents also found five metal plates and a press used to form

bundles of various sizes. Sergio Narro Fierro, 44, was arrested and turned over to

the Federal Prosecutor with the seized items. Fierro was arrested by ICE in El

Paso, TX, on 26 AUG 2009 for Importation and Possession of Marijuana.

SERGIO NARRO FIERRO

Photo from 26 AUG 2009

(El Paso County)


VILLA AHUMADA, CHIH. – On 11 MAY

2011, an ambulance was stopped at a

Federal Police checkpoint several miles

south of the town of Villa Ahumada. The

fake attendants stated they were traveling

to Villa Ahumada to pick up a sick person.

Federal Agents conducted a search of the

ambulance and discovered 360 kilos of

marijuana inside a false compartment.

Both men were arrested and later

admitted to have been paid ten thousand

pesos to transport the ambulance to the

town.

The number of DTO related homicides in Cd Juárez

and surrounding areas for this reporting period is 38.

There have been a total of 87 DTO related

homicides for the month of May.Figures as of 2400 hours 17 May 2011

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

1607

26583111

872

DTO Related Deaths Juarez MX 2008 to Date

2008 2009 2010 2011


CD. JUAREZ – On 13 MAY 2011, three men attacked a public bus that was

full of passengers traveling on Oscar Flores Blvd. near Cesareo Santos

Street. One passenger was wounded. Municipal Police pursued the car

involved in the attack and upon stopping the car discovered three armed

men identified as off-duty Federal Police Officers.

CD. JUAREZ – On 13 MAY 2011,

a man was shot and killed as he

waited for a public bus. The

homicide ocurred at the

intersection of Joaquín Terrazas

and Cromo streets in colonia

Barrio Alto. Ten shell casings were

found near the body.


CD. JUAREZ – On 16 MAY 2011, the body of a man was discovered in

the trunk of a car near the intersection of Los Azteca Avenue and

Profesora Emilia Pérez Payán Street in colonia Luis Olague. The

deceased was gagged and his hands bound.

Significant events in Mexico (cont)

CD. JUAREZ – On 14 MAY 2011, the body of a young woman was

discovered inside a drainage manhole in colonia El Sauzal. The victim

was gagged and her hands and feet were bound. Investigators

indicated the body had been inside the drain for several hours.

CD. JUAREZ – On 12 MAY 2011, a taxi driver was attacked by gunmen

in the S-Mart Zaragoza parking lot. The victim was uninjured in the

attack, as Municipal Police arrived quickly on the scene.

CD. JUAREZ – On 17 MAY 2010, a man was shot and killed inside his car

on Camino Ortiz Rubio Street near the Juárez-Porvenir Highway. Close to

twenty rds were fired into the vehicle.



CD. JUAREZ – On 10 MAY 2011, two men were beheaded in the town of Guadalupe, D.B., and less than

a mile away, a man and woman were killed inside their home, their throats slit with kitchen knives. On 11

MAY 2011, a woman was decapitated and dismembered in CD. Juarez and her head and arms were

placed on the hood of a car with a narco message: ―Aquí esta su chicharrón. Ahora siguen su compadre

y sus achichincles. Atte XUY.‖ (―Here’s your old lady. Next is your God Father, then the rest of your crowd.

Sincerely: XUY‖). On 14 MAY 2011, a man was beheaded in CD. Juarez and his head and hands placed

on the hood of his Ford Explorer. The rest of his body was located in the back of the Ford Explorer

wrapped in a pink blanket. Several months have passed in the CD. Juarez area without the intense level

of violence involved in these murders.

CD. JUAREZ – On 12 MAY 2010,

three men were shot and killed

near the intersection of Manuel

Gómez Morín and San Antonio

streets in the Senecú sub-

division. Two of the victims were

in a car and the third victim, an

employee at a nearby service

station, was found near the gas

pumps. Seventy shell casings

were found at the scene in 9mm,

7.62 x 39mm, and .223 cal.

CD. JUAREZ – On 12 MAY 2011, two men were

shot and killed inside a Hummer, and another

died as he ran from the vehicle into a house

located at the corner of Bellavista and Maple

streets in colonia Felipe Angeles.


CD. JUAREZ – On 13 MAY 2011, two men were shot and killed near Laura and Guadalupe streets

in colonia Lomas del Rey when the pickup they were traveling in crashed into a house. One of the

deceased was later identified as the Assistant Director of the CERESO (a prison) in Nueva

Casa Grandes, south of Cd. Juarez. Two state investigators were arrested by Municipal Police for

entering the crime scene without identification. One was later identified as the brother of one of the

victims. The arrest of the two ministeriales led to a confrontation between Municipal Police and

state investigators at the Babicura Municipal Police Station. Approximately fifty state investigators

converged on the entrance to the police station in an attempt to free their fellow officers from

Municipal Police custody. They were met by a large group of Municipal Police who prevented their

entrance into the compound. The press was on the scene and were even forced back and

threatened by state investigators. Subsequently, as many as fifteen state investigators were

arrested for their conduct. The chiefs from both agencies later met to work out better coordination

between the agencies.

Significant events in Mexico (cont)


Six Juárez traffic officers were fired after allegedly demanding a bribe from a motorist involved in a traffic

crash. The alleged bribery occurred this week when traffic officers demanded $300.00 to overlook the

incident and dismiss the traffic citation, local authorities said in a press release. The driver filed a formal

complaint against the officers, and after an inquiry, the officers were fired. Juárez Mayor Héctor Murguía

Lardizábalsaid his administration will not tolerate misconduct or dishonest behavior from its officers. On 16

MAY 2011, the Cd. Juarez Chief of Police, who also heads the Traffic Division (Transito), held a

mandatory meeting with the entire traffic division to go over policies, and to deliver a warning for the

officers to conduct their jobs properly and ethically, or face the consequences. At least four-hundred and

fifty CD. Juarez Municipal Police Officers and Transito Officers have been terminated since the new

administration came into office.

Mexican President Felipe Calderon is expected to visit CD. Juarez on Friday, 20 MAY

2011. During his visit it is expected that the issues of public security, social and educational

initiatives, and employment will be discussed with members of the local and state

governments.

Significant events In Mexico

MEXICO – Thousands of bulletproof vests enter Mexico on a yearly basis. And while

purchasing these vests is not illegal, the use of them by criminals puts select police

forces at a disadvantage. The majority of Mexican authorities (police) are armed with

.38 Supers and no bulletproof vests. Bulletproof vests, such as those used by SWAT

Teams, are being seized with increased frequency by state and federal

authorities throughout Mexico. These seizures are usually made after shootouts and from the interior of

raided residences. Over the course of the last five years, authorities have seized more than 4,000

bulletproof vests. According to Mexican authorities a majority of bulletproof vests that are seized enter

through the northern border and come from manufactures in the US to include: Pointblank Solutions in

Pompano Beach, Florida; Safariland of Sierra Madre, California; Protective Products International of Fort

Lauderdale, Florida; ABA American Body Armor of Jacksonville, Florida, and Browning of Salt Lake City,

Utah.


Significant events In Mexico (cont)

TAMAULIPAS – Mexico’s Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA)

reports that the two gun battles took place in Tampico.

TAMAULIPAS – Mexico's Federal Government announced the deployment of an

additional 500 army troops to the northeastern state of Tamaulipas due to the turf

battles between the Gulf Cartel and Los Zetas. The 500 soldiers "will bolster the

significant presence of federal forces" already in Tamaulipas, a Federal Security

spokesman stated without offering details on the total number of military personnel

deployed to that state, where 183 bodies were located. According to reports, 8,435

Officials report that a total of six gunmen were killed and authorities seized assault rifles, ammunition,

three grenades and two vehicles. Officials also report that soldiers found a decapitated body at the scene

and a head found inside an ice chest is believed to belong to the body. Officials also report that a gun

battle took place in the border city of Reynosa on Mexico’s Mother’s Day. Nobody was killed in the battle,

but soldiers did seize vehicles, assault rifles and ammunition.

soldiers have been deployed to combat organized crime in the 4th Military Region, which is the largest

troop presence in the country's 12 Military Regions.

NUEVO LEON – On 18 MAY 2011 , a confrontation between Guadalupe Municipal Police traveling in a 12

vehicle convoy and Los Zetas operators was reported on Pablo Livas and Eloy Cavazos Avenues

[25.6645 -100.2473] in Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon. This initial confrontation extended to Israel Cavazos

Avenue and finally ended at the intersection of Xochimilco Avenue and the Highway that leads to Reynosa

[25.6662 -100.1714]. Weapons utilized during this attack were reported as bazookas, at least four

grenades, and high caliber weapons (hundreds of spent shell casings were recovered from the area

surrounding the incident). In the aftermath of this incident, authorities discovered that three officers had

been brutally murdered while attempting to defend themselves. Items seized from an abandoned Mazda

vehicle utilized by the Los Zetas during the confrontation included: AK-47 assault rifle, mags, rds of ammo

tactical equipment, radio communication equipment, and hats bearing the Los Zetas logo .


Significant events In Mexico (cont)

TAMAULIPAS – At least 40 SUVs and pickups were stolen from a vehicle exposition in Reynosa on

07 MAY 2011. While employees were preparing to open the vehicle exposition to the public that

morning, gunmen rounded up the employees and demanded the keys to the vehicles. The

attackers confined the employees to an area and drove the new vehicles away. The attack likely

involved preplanning, choosing escape routes and the coordinated use of a heavily armed force

that likely consisted of more than 50 people in order to provide drivers for the vehicles that

transported the gunmen to the exposition and for the stolen vehicles as well as security along the

escape route. There have been other incidents of dealerships along the border robbed of numerous

vehicles, but none with the magnitude and planning of this. The Mexican Army arrived within

minutes but were unable to find the convoy of stolen trucks. No injuries were reported.

CIUDAD MIER – Mexican Navy officials detailed the rescue of two telephone company employees

who were allegedly kidnapped by cartel members as they entered Ciudad Mier, across the Rio

Grande and 8 miles west of Roma, TX. Officers were on patrol near the 1460km mark of the Ciudad

Mier Highway when two people approached them asking for help. Two two subjects told authorities

they were telephone company workers in charge of maintaining communication antennas for a

company. Two of their coworkers, they said, had been kidnapped. As the telephone workers were

heading to Mier, a truck carrying three armed men blocked their path and signaled them to stop.

The four employees stopped, but they tried to flee on foot because they were scared of being

kidnapped, authorities said. The armed men, however, were able to kidnap two of the four. In

Mexico, many use the term ―levanton‖ — or ―lift‖ when translated to English — to describe this

method of taking someone. After searching the area, the officers were able to locate the other two

employees who had been visibly beaten. Both men told authorities they had been kidnapped and

interrogated by members of a criminal organization but were abandoned after the attackers spotted

the Navy officials.


GUATEMALA – The massacre in Guatemala that left

27 people dead in a cattle ranch – believed to be the

work of Mexico’s notorious drug, the Zetas – has forced

a 30-day state of emergency. Guatemalan President

Alvaro Colom, who called the killings sadistic and

perverse, issued the urgent declaration after

announcing that he would go to the jungle-covered

region to personally direct operations aimed at rooting

out what is believed to be a Mexican drug cartel that

has taken up residence in Petén. Such declarations traditionally give the army emergency powers,

including permission to detain suspects without warrants. The attack late Saturday and early

Sunday on an isolated cattle ranch was of one of Guatemala's largest postwar massacres. Gunmen

believed to belong to Mexico's Zetas cartel killed the farm laborers, including two women and two

children, and left their severed heads scattered across the pastures of the cattle ranch.

GUATEMALA – A high-level member of Mexico’s Los Zetas drug cartel, Hugo Alvaro Gomez

Vasquez, was arrested on 18 MAY 2011. President Alvaro Colom stated that Gomez Vasquez is

likely directly linked to the massacre in Peten. The information that led investigators to Gomez

Vasquez was found Tuesday in a camp at the La Mula ranch, located about 15 kilometers (9.3

miles) from the Los Cocos ranch, where the massacre occurred. Security forces members found 28

rifles, military uniforms, vests and vehicles at the ranch believed to have been used by Los Zetas to

carry out the attack, Colom said. Gomez Vasquez, known as ―Comandante Bruja‖ (Commander

Witch), has been linked to last Friday’s kidnapping-murders of Luis Carlos Bardales, his son, Luis

Alberto, and daughter-in-law, Keiry Franco, who was the niece of Otto Salguero, the owner of the

Los Cocos ranch.

Significant events in South America with Mexico ties



CHIAPAS – Police in Mexico’s southern Chiapas state found 513 migrants on 17 MAY 2011 inside two

trailer trucks bound for the US. Some of the immigrants were suffering from dehydration after traveling for

hours clinging to cargo ropes strung inside the containers to keep them upright which allowed more

migrants to be crammed in on the floor. The trucks had air holes punched in the tops of the containers, but

migrants indicated they lacked air and water. The trucks were bound for the central city of Puebla, where

the migrants said they were to be loaded aboard a second set of vehicles for the trip to the US border. The

migrants said the smugglers were charging them about $7,000 apiece to get them into the United States.

Officials of Mexico's National Immigration Institute said the 113 migrants still being held are from nations

that don't share borders with Mexico or are Guatemalan minors or women who require special treatment.

The 400 Guatemalan migrants were returned to their country in air-conditioned buses Wednesday, a stark

contrast to the sweltering, overcrowded trailers where they were found. The remaining migrants include 47

from El Salvador, 32 from Ecuador, 12 from India, six from Nepal, three from China and one each from the

Dominican Republic and Honduras, as well as Guatemalan minors and women.


COLOMBIA – Since cocaine cartels in South America began using submarines and semi-submersible

craft to transport cocaine north in the 1990s, the U.S. and Colombia have been desperately seeking the

specialists responsible for designing and building these craft. Recently, Argentina revealed they had

arrested one of the main organizers of the sub building operation. The suspect, Ignacio Alvarez

Meyendorff, is identified as working for the Colombian Norte del Valle drug cartel, and in charge of

logistics for the submarine project. It's believed that Meyendorff was tracked down via information

obtained by the U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI). The outer hull of the sub was made out of strong,

lightweight, Kevlar/carbon fiber that was sturdy enough to keep the sub intact, but very difficult to detect

with most sensors. The hull could not survive deep dives, but this boat didn't have to go deep to get the

job done. The two fiberglass/Kevlar submarines found so far were obviously built to transport cocaine to

North America. Neither the United States, nor anyone else who might know, are talking about how many

of these subs are out there, or believed to be in operation or under construction. Similar type boats could

Significant Events in South America with Mexico ties

be built for terrorist or espionage missions.

A lot of evidence was collected, and

apparently the U.S. DEA (Drug

Enforcement Agency) used this, and the

ONI analysis of materials and components

to develop clues about who was involved.

The DEA put together pieces that led to

identifying Meyendorff and locating him in

Argentina. In the last two decades. since

this type of smuggling "submarine" was first

encountered, the Colombian military has

captured over 60. Many more were

apparently sunk by their crews after

delivering their cargo to Mexico. (For full

article: Click Here)

http://www.strategypage.com/dls/articles/Finding-The-Brains-Behind-The-Cocaine-Boats-5-16-2011.asp




Significant events In Mexico (cont)Mexican authorities released details about a massive shootout and manhunt that put the Los Indios

International Bridge in Brownsville on alert. Mexico's Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) reported the

shootout took place in a rural area outside Matamoros on 18 MAY 2011. SEDENA officials reported that a

military helicopter was patrolling the area when soldiers spotted a convoy of 17 trucks and SUVs on a dirt

road. Members of the convoy allegedly opened fire on the helicopter prompting the pilot to call for backup.

Ground soldiers arrived in area and were greeted by gunfire. SEDENA officials reported that vehicles from

the convoy scattered in an escape attempt. More soldiers arrived at the scene where different military

patrols split up to search for the gunmen and their vehicles. The firefights and searches took place just

southeast of the Los Indios International Bridge in and around rural communities such as Control,

Estacion Ramirez and Lucio Blanco. SEDENA officials reported that only three gunmen were killed and

that three were arrested in the incident.

Seized after the incident were the following:

• 83 assault rifles

• 18 handguns

• 5 grenade launchers

• 1 rocket launcher

• 11 fragmentation grenade

• 28 grenades

• 315 ammunition clips

• 18,274 bullets

• 17 vehicles

• 17.6 lbs of cocaine

• 0.76 ounces of marijuana

CDG


UPDATES & ASSESSMENT

OPERATION BORDER STAR


OBS Weekly Assessment

Marijuana seizures decreased 4.7% from 42,296.81 lbs last week to 40,300.12 lbs this week. This BOSA

reporting period ends the 20th week of the year with a 39,553.3 lbs weekly average thus far for 2011. The

final 2010 weekly average was 33,354.2 lbs a week. The long-term trend line showed a downward

movement of total marijuana seized (in lbs) in 2009 and 2010 around May and June. The RGV Sector had

a significant seizure of 7,553 lbs of marijuana in Hidalgo Co. The marijuana, seized from multiple rooms in

a residence, fit in five pickup beds (see photos below). The total estimated street value for the reported

marijuana seizures during this reporting period is $35.46 million.

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

70,000

7-M

ay-0

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Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View

Marijuana (lbs) Long-Term Trendline

47,758.71

35,145.40

42,296.8140,300.12

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View

Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average

2011 Weekly Average


OBS Weekly Assessment (cont)

Cocaine seizures decreased by nearly half from 266.72 lbs seized last week to 141.54 lbs this week. The

Coastal Bend Sector had a noteworthy seizure of 13.22 lbs of cocaine from a radiator. The RGV Sector

also had a large cocaine seizure, 22.7 lbs, at the Brownsville B&M Bridge from the center console/firewall

area of a Ford Fusion with Mexican plates. The total estimated street value for reported cocaine seizures

totaled $7.5 million.

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View

Cocaine (lbs) Long-Term Trendline

87.79

260.14 266.72

141.54

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View


2011 Weekly Average

Date/Time Vehicle Location Seizure

18 MAY 2011 (reported) Chevrolet Suburban US-77N – Kingsville – RGV Sector 13.22 lbs COCAINE

06 MAY 2011 1996 Chevrolet Suburban Brownsville B&M Bridge – RGV Sector 14.37 lbs COCAINE

08 APR 2011 1999 GMC Suburban Brownsville Veterans Bridge – RGV Sector 12.63 lbs HEROIN

11 MAR 2011 (reported) Chevrolet Pickup Brownsville, TX, IH-77N – RGV Sector 13.1 lbs COCAINE

10 DEC 2010 1992 Chevrolet Pickup Wharton Co, US-59 – Coastal Bend Sector $72,961 USD

Reported Radiator Seizures from past 6 months


Robstown PD Officers found several indicators

that the vehicle had been modified. Wires were

discovered that led to an electronic piston behind the rear passenger seat.

When activated, a trapdoor in the seat opened to reveal a compartment for

smuggling. Investigation revealed the suspect was returning from a narcotics

delivery.

Electronically controlled smuggling compartment.

Speaker Box for concealment in

trunk.

Interesting concealment methods

On 15 MAY 2011, THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 1997 Ford pickup traveling southbound on IH-35 near Laredo. The pickup was pulling a flatbed trailer with fencing materials. The trooper discovered and seized $2,770.00 concealed on

the driver. The material on the trailer was searched and 14 of 21 wooden fence posts were found to have hollow compartments. No contraband was discovered.




Bulk currency seizures increased from $673,181 USD last week to $2,188,541

USD this week. Del Rio, Laredo, and Coastal Bend had significant seizures this

week totaling just over $2 million USD. In the Laredo Sector, $600,146 USD was

seized from a spare tire in a 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport at the Lincoln Juarez

Bridge. In the Coastal Bend Sector, $248,000 USD was seized from the

secondary axle housing of a 1999 Freightliner on US-77S. In the Del Rio Sector,

$549,950 USD was seized from both sides of the rocker panels of 2008 Mazda 6.

Heroin and methamphetamine seizures for this week’s reporting period total 0.28 lbs and 0.01 lbs,

respectively. Both Heroin and methamphetamine are down nearly 100% from last week’s 28.52 lbs of

heroin seizures and 60.8 lbs of methamphetamine seizures.

932,448.00

314,952.05

673,181.70

2,188,541.00

0.00

500,000.00

1,000,000.00

1,500,000.00

2,000,000.00

2,500,000.00

29-Apr-11 6-May-11 13-May-11 20-May-11

Currency Seizures ($) Short-Term View


2011 Weekly Average

$0

$1,000,000

$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

$6,000,000

$7,000,000

$8,000,000

Currency Seizures ($) Long-Term View

Currency Seizures (USD) Long-Term Trendline

The street value of all contraband seized this week represents a loss to Mexican DTOs and the

criminal networks that support them of approximately $45.4 million.


Illegal alien apprehensions decreased from 2,794 last week to 1,987 this week. OTM apprehensions

decreased from 728 last week to 653 this week.


Significant weapons seizures were seen in the Del Rio Sector and Rio Grande Valley Sector. At the

Eagle Pass POE 1, ten rifles and one pistol were concealed in three cardboard boxes in a 2003 Ford

Explorer. The vehicle was also outfitted with an electronically operated false compartment under the

center console. At the Brownsville Gateway Bridge, five rifles and two handguns wrapped in foil were

concealed in the trunk of a 2003 Ford Taurus with Florida license plates.

RGV Seizure Del Rio Seizure

Significant Gang Activity:

• Jim Wells Co SO and the Texas Rangers arrested two MEXICAN MAFIA

gang members on murder charges for the ―hit‖ ordered on an individual

over missing narcotics. (Border nexus)

• Corpus Christi PD arrested a TEXAS SYNDICATE gang member for the

death of three women.

• THP – Guadalupe Co seized 0.440 lbs of cocaine concealed in a hidden

compartment (see photo at right) behind the glove box in a 2004 Ford F-

150 pickup. One of the two male suspects is a MEXICAN MAFIA gang

member.


BOSA REVISITED FOOD CONTAINERS FOR CONCEALMENT

LAREDO SECTOR: On 08 MAY 2011, workingat the IH-35 Checkpoint, initiated a secondaryinspection on a white 1994 ChevroletSilverado pickup driven by a male subject. Theagents seized 11.75 lbs of marijuanaconcealed in cereal cardboard boxes. Thesubject and vehicle were released. Themarijuana was turned over to DEA.(BOSA 13 MAY 2011)

STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 13 JAN 2011, THPGroom stopped a 2003 Ford E-250 on IH-40and arrested one suspect. A consent tosearch revealed ½ ounce of marijuana insome luggage and 1 kilogram of cocaineinside a cereal box located in a natural voidunder the rear seat. The contrabandoriginated in Phoenix and was destined forBiddeford, ME. (BOSA 21 JAN 2011)

STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 24 SEPT 2010,

THP – Chambers Co stopped a 2002 Chrysler Concorde on IH-10. A consent to search revealed $2,745 USD, 1 lb

marijuana, and one .32 cal weapon concealed within

the cereal boxes. The contraband originated in

Houston, TX, and was destined for Louisville MS.

(Teletypes)

STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 27 AUG 2010,THP Houston, Harris Co, stopped a2004 Ford F-150 on FM 1960 andarrested two suspects after locating15.4 kilos of cocaine concealed insealed household product boxes.(BOSA 03 SEPT 2010)

STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 24 AUG 2010, THP seized 2.25 lbs ofmarijuana, $10,161 USD, a 2010 Dodge and arrested three subjectsfollowing a traffic stop on IH-35 near Lorena, McLennan Co. A searchof the vehicle produced the marijuana and currency within fourresealed Lays Potato Chip bags, and one resealed Cheese Nips box.(BOSA 27 AUG 2010)

STATEWIDE SEIZURE: On 23 SEPT 2010, THPBrenham stopped a 2004 Cadillac CoupeDeVille on IH-10 and arrested 2 suspects afterlocating 4.95 pounds of liquid PCP concealedwithin plastic juice bottles. The PCPoriginated in Houston and was destined forBeaumont. Both suspects in the vehicle wereconfirmed “CRIPS” gang members. (BOSA


BORDER SECURITY OPERATIONS CENTERTEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

[email protected] Duty Phone: 512-424-7351; 7034

Fax: 512-424-7041

If any comments or questions arise from this product, please contact:

If you would like to receive a weekly copy of this dissemination, please contact the BSOC at [email protected]

Note: Due the product size, the photographs have been set to the lowest resolution to enable distribution of the product. If you need higher resolution photos, please contact the BSOC.

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