LYNDEN, Wash. — Border patrol agents found 78 pounds of cocaine – hidden in backpacks – while searching a wooded area in Lynden.
The discovery was made during a routine search along the border.
According to a news release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, agents found two black backpacks that had been abandoned. Inside, they found about 30 bricks of a white, powdery substance that was later tested and determined to be cocaine.
The estimated street value of the drugs is $1.1 million.
“Thanks to the vigilance of Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents these dangerous narcotics were prevented from reaching our communities,” said Chief Patrol Agent Rosario “Pete” Vasquez. “Our agents work tirelessly day in and day out to protect this nation, and this seizure highlights that crucial commitment.”
The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).