Two abandoned backpacks containing approximately 78 pounds of cocaine, worth over $1.1 million, were discovered near the Washington-Canada border by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The discovery, which took place on Thursday, December 19, 2024, has raised concerns about ongoing drug smuggling operations along the U.S.-Canada border.
The backpacks were found by agents patrolling the Blaine Sector, a region that covers Washington, Alaska, and Oregon.
The bags were located in a wooded area near Lynden, Washington, a town near the Canadian border. Inside the backpacks were 30 packages, wrapped in brick-like formations, containing a white powdery substance.
Upon testing, the substance was confirmed to be cocaine, weighing about 78 pounds.
The cocaine was seized by U.S. authorities and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for further investigation.
According to a spokesperson for CBP, the drugs were believed to have been smuggled into the U.S. from Canada.
Despite efforts by both U.S. Border Patrol and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to locate any suspects on either side of the border, no arrests have been made.
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Chief Patrol Agent Rosario “Pete” Vasquez commended the Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents for their vigilance, stating, “Thanks to the vigilance of Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents, these dangerous narcotics were prevented from reaching our communities.”
In 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seized over 68,000 pounds of cocaine, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Cocaine, classified as a Schedule II drug by the DEA, is known for its high potential for abuse and dangerous physiological effects, including increased blood pressure, heart rate, and the risk of severe health complications such as strokes or cardiac arrest.
The discovery highlights the persistent threat posed by drug smuggling operations along the U.S.-Canada border and the continuing efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb illegal drug trafficking.