134786_110225 BOSA

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 Rio Grande Valley Sector had two marijuana seizures over 2,000 lbs from Mexican

freightliners in which the bundles were co-mingled with limes.

•The largest single seizure of 56.34 lbs occurred in the RGV Sector which resulted from a traffic

stop, 20 bundles of cocaine were discovered hidden in a false compartment under the driver and

passenger seats.

•In the Del Rio Sector, there has been an increase in marijuana seizures in the northwest end of Val

Verde County in the last two months.

•CBP Officers at the Hidalgo POE inspected a Mexican taxicab resulting in the seizure of

7.58 pounds of heroin concealed in four refried bean cans in the passenger’s (USC)

luggage.

•The Coastal Bend Sector reported a seizure in Brooks Co involving $85, 254 USD concealed in

the false bottom of a 5-gallon paint bucket and inside a box of vinyl tile with the centers cut out.

•On 23 FEB 2011, Mexican military forces arrested Julian Zapata Espinoza, aka ―Piolin‖ or ―Tweety

Bird,‖ along with five other members of a local cell of Los Zetas, three women, and a minor, for the

killing of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent Jaime Zapata on HWY-57 in the state

of San Luis Potosí.

•On 24 FEB 2011, US law enforcement officers carried out Operation Response targeting drug

trafficking organizations located throughout the US. Preliminary statistics for Texas show that

officers seized $953,000 in currency, 15,650 lbs of marijuana, 151 kilos of cocaine, 11 ounces of

methamphetamine, 94 weapons (including two hand grenades) and made 74 arrests.


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. 05-13

Marfa Sector

p. 14-21

Del Rio Sector

p. 22-30

Laredo Sector

p. 31-40Rio Grande

Valley Sector

p. 41-58

Coastal Bend

Sector

p. 59-71

Statewide Corridor Seizures

p. 72-81

Overall Assessment

p. 92-97

Sig. Mexico Events

p. 82-91

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

Operation BORDER STAR 16 – 22 FEBURARY 2011


EL PASO UNIFIED COMMAND SECTOR16 – 22 FEB 2011

EL PASOH

U D

S P E T H


UNIFIED COMMAND MEMBERS

Hudspeth 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

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 SO

Full Map/Table of Contents


El Paso SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 99

Fugitive Arrests 48

Gang Related Criminal Arrests 8

Pursuits 1

Scouts/Decoys 0

Illegal Alien Apprehensions

IAs/Referrals 0

IAs/USBP 186

OTMs 19

OTM Countries

El Salvador 1

Guatemala 2

Lithuania 1

Colombia 1

Honduras 2

Brazil 2

China 1

India 4

Peru 5

Contraband Seizures

Marijuana 1,843.74 lbs

Cocaine 21.21 lbs

Heroin 0.00 lbs

Methamphetamine 0.00 lbs

Currency $619.65

OtherHydrocodone (10 pills)

Ecstasy (1 pill)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 1

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0 Vehicles Stolen / Recovered

Stolen 21

Recovered 1


El Paso Sector

The Unified Command statistics over the past 4 weeks:

$23,830

$0

$16,086

$620$0

$5,000

$10,000

$15,000

$20,000

$25,000

$30,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

El Paso UC Currency Seizures

3,755.55

2,351.78

3,205.64

1,843.74

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-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

El Paso UC Marijuana Seizures

22.10

8.81

72.88

21.21

0.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

70.00

80.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

El Paso UC Cocaine Seizures

205

140

256

186

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

El Paso UC Illegal Aliens


Southbound operations

El Paso PD conducted Southbound Operations on 22 FEB 2011 in support of Operation

Border Star during this reporting period. A 2004 Ford F-350 was recovered at the Stanton

Bridge (POE). The pickup was reported stolen on 14 FEB 2011 in Tucson, AZ.

Gang activity

Sur 13 Barrio Azteca Los Demonios Trece

Paisa Bario Canuto Rifa Segundo Barrio Kings

Crip Hated By Many Central Side Locos

Ten gang-related incidents were reported during this period involving ten arrests of members from

nine different gangs. There were eight criminal and five fugitive arrests. The incidents involved:

Possession of Marijuana, Public Intoxication, Assault, Theft of Vehicle, and Evading Arrest /

Detention.

On 16 FEB 2011, CBP-OFO Officers at the Ysleta POE seized 8.8 lbs of

marijuana that was concealed within the rear dash of a 2002 Ford Taurus.

Additional information


43.5 pounds marijuana

• On 02/13/2011, 42.88 lbs of marijuana that was concealed inside the quarter

panels of Plymouth Neon 1995.

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

• On 02/15/2011, 69.89 lbs of marijuana that

was concealed inside all four tires of a 2004

Jeep Liberty.

Additional information (cont)



• On 15 FEB 2011, 72.62 lbs of marijuana that was concealed inside the four doors

and hatch of a 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

• On 17 FEB 2011, 16.05 lbs of marijuana that was concealed within the dashboard

of a 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt.

CBP-OFO Officers at the Ysleta POE seized:

• On 17 FEB 2011,

76.41 lbs of marijuana

that was concealed

inside all four tires of a

2001 Toyota 4 Runner.



On 17 FEB 2011, CBP-OFO Officers at the Bridge of the Americas POE seized 141.3 lbs of

marijuana that was concealed inside a metal box within the fuel tank of a 1995 GMC Sierra pickup.

The El Paso Sector experienced a decrease in

seizures of marijuana, cocaine and currency.

Additionally there was a decrease in stolen vehicles

(4). Of the total 1,843 lbs of marijuana seized, 141 lbs

was seized at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA), 157

lbs at the Ysleta POE, 122 lbs at the Paso Del Norte

POE, 551 lbs at Ft Hancock and 784 lbs in the

Lordsburg area. There were 35 reported marijuana

seizures, and one cocaine seizure in Lordsburg (9.54

kilos). There were no significant trends noted in the

method of concealment during this reporting period.

Quarter panels, tires, and fuel tanks were the preferred

concealment locations in a wide variety of vehicles.

El Paso JOIC’s Sector AssessmentPaso Del Norte (PDN)

and Stanton Street POE

Stanton Street POE with dedicated

commuter lane


El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)

During this reporting period, IA apprehensions decreased by 70 from the previous

week’s 256. The total reported IA apprehensions within the El Paso Sector from

January 5 through February 22 is 1,327 with 93 being other than Mexican (OTM).

From 1/05 – 1/11 (119 apprehensions)







Leading IA OTMs thus far to date:

Guatemala 18

Honduras 15

El Salvador 14

India 14

ALGER, 1

BRAZIL, 3

HONDO, 9

ELSAL, 4

INDIA, 5

UINEA, 1

URUGU, 1

COLOM, 1

PERU, 5

CHINA, 1LITHU, 1

ALGER

BRAZIL

HONDO

ELSAL

INDIA

UINEA

URUGU

COLOM

PERU

CHINA

LITHU

Feb 16 THRU Feb 22


El Paso JOIC’s Sector Assessment (cont)

City-wide index crime continues to show a decrease

compared to the same time frame last year. There is

a noted 900% increase (9) in murders, a 78% increase

(14) in sexual assaults, 5% increase (3) in robberies, a

7% decrease (107) in assaults, a 12% decrease (13)

in burglary, and a 6% decrease (65) in vehicle theft,

and a 24% decrease (55) in vehicle burglary. It is

noteworthy that overall crime continues to remain low

with the continued population increase.(Chart Provided by El Paso PD)

Population of El Paso: 644,638

Citywide (YTD through Feb 19th, 2011)

Offense 2010 2011 % Change

Murder 1 10 900%

Sexual Assault 18 32 78%

Robbery 55 58 5%

Assault 1,462 1,355 -7%

Burglary 259 246 -5%

Larceny 1,871 1,533 -18%

Vehicle Theft 270 205 -24%

*Burglary Vehicle 378 323 -15%

Total: 3,936 3,439 -13%

*** Crime Rate: 611 533 -13%

Murder, 10

Sexual Aslt, 32

Robbery, 58

Aslt, 1,355

Burglary, 246

Larceny , 1,533

Veh Theft, 205

*Burg Vehicle , 323

Murder

Sexual Aslt

Robbery

Aslt

Burglary

Larceny

Veh Theft

*Burg Vehicle

City Wide for week ending 02-19-2011

Murder, 1

Sexual Aslt, 18

Robbery, 55

Aslt, 1,462

Burglary, 259

Larceny , 1,871

Veh Theft, 270

*Burg Vehicle , 378

Murder

Sexual Aslt

Robbery

Aslt

Burglary

Larceny

Veh Theft

*Burg Vehicle

City Wide for week ending 02-19-2010


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 SECTOR16 – 22 FEB 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



Marfa SectorThe Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 4

Bailouts 0

Criminal Arrests 70

Fugitive Arrests 1


Pursuits 1

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 0

IAs/USBP 49

OTMs 3

OTM Countries

Spain 1

Honduras 1

Bahamas 1

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 0.05 lbs

Heroin 0.0 lbs


Currency $5,829.00

OtherHashish (0.01 lbs)

Ecstasy (6 pills)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 2

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 90 rds

Vehicles Stolen / Recovered

Stolen 0

Recovered 0

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION – LAW ENFORCEMENT SENSATIVE


Marfa Sector


$2,040

$0

$8,660

$5,829

$0

$1,000

$2,000

$3,000

$4,000

$5,000

$6,000

$7,000

$8,000

$9,000

$10,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Marfa UC Currency Seizures

2,505.10

3,767.55

912.50

3,388.29

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-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ized

Marfa UC Marijuana Seizures

4.41

0.01 0.00 0.050.00

0.50

1.00

1.50

2.00

2.50

3.00

3.50

4.00

4.50

5.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Marfa UC Cocaine Seizures

40

20

59

49

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Marfa UC Illegal Aliens


Presidio Co SO requested DPS AVN fly known smuggling

routes. DPS AVN located a lay-up location on the Nancy

Ann/Brite Ranch. DPS 119 landed and photographed fresh

energy bar wrappers, empty water bottles, and orange

peels. A barbed wire fence located within a few feet of the

location and strands of wire had been pulled apart and tied

to make crossing easier.


N

Pa

th u

nd

er

fen

ce

Water Bottle and Hat

Wa

ter

Bo

ttle

s


Valentine

NAdditional information (cont)

USBP Agents in Presidio Co seized 228.3 lbs of marijuana and

apprehended one IA on the Miller Ranch, southwest of Valentine

Texas. Three Individuals were seen absconding south and one

individual was seen absconding east towards Valentine. The

marijuana and subject were turned over to the DEA.



Terrell Co SO, with assistance from Texas

Parks and Wildlife, seized 413.95 lbs of

marijuana and apprehended one IA in a silver

2010 Ford F-150 on SH-349 after a brief

pursuit. The marijuana and subject were turned

over to DHS-HSI. The vehicle is being held by

the Terrell Co SO.

• 72.14 lbs of marijuana, $5,829.00 USD and apprehended two USCs in a silver 2011 Hyundai

BTM. The marijuana, currency, vehicle and subject were turned over to DEA.

Boxes removed from trunk of car. Trash bags containing marijuana bundles.

• 74.67 lbs of marijuana and apprehended

one USC in a blue 1995 Mercury Grand

Marquis. The marijuana bricks were

concealed in the front and rear door

panels. The marijuana, vehicle and

subject were turned over to DEA.

USBP Agents in Hudspeth Co seized:


Additional information (cont)Presidio PD Officers, acting on a BOLO, issued by the JOIC based on DHS-HSI information, seized

2,428.6 lbs of marijuana, a commercial vehicle, and apprehended four subjects in Presidio, TX.

The subjects, vehicle and marijuana were turned over to DHS-HSI.


Marfa Unified Command Sector Assessment

Marijuana seizures by the Unified Command in the Marfa Sector increased this week to 3,388.29

lbs of marijuana compared to last week’s total, 912.50 lbs. The largest seizure was 2,428.6 lbs in

Presidio, TX by the Presidio PD. The Presidio PD was acting upon a BOLO based on information

provided by DHS-HSI and disseminated by the Marfa JOIC. The second largest seizure was 413.9

lbs of marijuana seized by Terrell County SO and TPWD on SH-349 in Terrell Co. Backpacking

continues as one of the major methods of smuggling marijuana though the area. There was a small

amount of cocaine seized this week with 0.045 lbs. IA apprehensions were down across the entire

area. Presidio, Terrell, Jeff Davis, and southeastern Brewster Co were very active this week.

Commercial truck traffic accounted for the major portion of seized narcotics this week.

Operation GEAR JAMMER is ongoing this month, with a concentration on commercial vehicles.

DPS Air 119 was called to

Big Bend National Park for

a rescue mission. The

mission involved a 58-year

old male hiker, who suffered

a heart attack while hiking

the Marufa Vega trail. DPS

119 was able to successfully

airlift the patient to Panther

Junction, where an air

ambulance was standing by.



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 SECTOR16 – 22 FEB 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 22

Bailouts 11

Criminal Arrests 31

Fugitive Arrests 8


Pursuits 3

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 9

IAs/USBP 210

OTMs 34

OTM Countries

El Salvador 6

Guatemala 9

Honduras 19

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 0.033 lbs

Heroin 0 lbs

Methamphetamine 0 lbs

Currency $0.00

Other 0

Weapons

Handgun(s) 2

Long Gun(s) 1

Ammunition 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 11


Del Rio Sector


$101,530

$0 $0 $0$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Del Rio UC Currency Seizures

1,662.73

2,454.91

2,080.13

5,083.52

0.00

1,000.00

2,000.00

3,000.00

4,000.00

5,000.00

6,000.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Del Rio UC Marijuana Seizures

205

233

371

210

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Del Rio UC Illegal Aliens

0.00

93.48

0.00 0.030.00

10.00

20.00

30.00

40.00

50.00

60.00

70.00

80.00

90.00

100.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Del Rio UC Cocaine Seizures


• With the CBP-OFO and the USBP, arrested a subject with an

outstanding warrant from Dallas, TX. The subject was transported to the

Tom Bowles Detention Center to await extradition.

• Observed an individual walking southbound who absconded when CBP

Officers attempted to make contact with the subject, he ran toward MX,

but was apprehended in the middle of the bridge. The subject was a

juvenile and freely admitted to being a Mexican National. The juvenile

was granted Voluntary Return and the Mexican Consulate took custody

of him.

Southbound Operations

Gang activity

USBP Agents, on patrol on SH-85 near Big Wells, observed a Tan 2001 Cadillac

Sedan pass their location. Upon stopping, the Agents determined the driver and

front passenger were USCs and the rear passenger was an IA. Both USCs admitted to

engaging in Alien Smuggling, having dropped off an unknown fourth subject prior to the stop. Both

USCs had criminal backgrounds and suspected gang affiliation, one with SUR 13, and one with

FOLKS. The driver was on parole. The vehicle was seized by USBP, the IA will serve as a material

witness, and the USCs will be prosecuted for Aiding and Abetting.

A Maverick Co SO Deputy, working OPERATION OUTBOUND at the Eagle Pass POE #1:


DPS-CID, working with Val Verde Co SO, USBP,

Del Rio PD, and ICE served a search warrant on a

local residence that resulted in the recovery of a stolen .45 caliber Colt pistol. The investigation led

to a second search warrant being obtained and served on a different residence that resulted in the

seizure of 2,062 lbs of marijuana. No arrests were reported.


A USBP camera operator observed two subjects

loading bundles into the trunk of a Blue 2001

Pontiac Sunfire near Jones Street in Quemado,

TX. USBP Agents were alerted to the vehicle's

movement and began following. When the

Agents activated their emergency equipment,

the vehicle accelerated in an attempt to evade,

but eventually stopped. Agents discovered two

feed sacks containing 288 lbs of marijuana in the trunk. The vehicle was registered to an owner in

Eagle Pass. The DEA took custody of the subjects and the contraband.

USBP Agents followed foot signs leading away from the Rio Grande until coming upon five subjects

with five green duffel bags. The four subjects were apprehended and one subject absconded back

into Mexico. The Agents questioned the subjects regarding their citizenship and they stated they

were illegally in the US. The bags were opened and revealed 20 brown bundles of narcotics

weighing 386.5 lbs. The narcotics were turned over to DEA. The IAs with be processed for

Expedited Removals.



• Stopped a 1994 GMC Safari at the US-277

Checkpoint in Val Verde Co. The driver

displayed nervous behavior, and the USBP K-9

alerted to the driver’s side of the vehicle. Fifteen

bricks of marijuana weighing 39.05 lbs were

seized. The DEA took custody of the

contraband but declined prosecution. The

subjects and vehicle were released.

USBP Agents:

• Were informed of subjects swimming across the Rio Grande

near the Lucky Eagle Casino. Agents arrived at the location

on Riverside Acres and observed multiple subjects running

back towards Mexico. Agents were able to apprehend one

subject. A search of the area revealed bundles of marijuana

stashed in a red Chevrolet Silverado near the residence.

There were a total of 160 bricks of marijuana weighing 332.63

lbs. While questioning the subject, a second male subject

approached and stated that the truck was his father's and he

was there to pick it up. He stated that he was to deliver the

narcotics to an unknown location. Based on the admission of

both subjects, the USBP Agents arrested them. The

marijuana and the two subjects were turned over to the DEA

and the truck was seized by the USBP. Four subjects

successfully absconded.


Red Marker: 01-01-2011 / 02-23-2011 (4 incident / 2 months)

Purple Marker: 08-29-2010 / 12-31-2010 (12 incidents / 4 months)

Turquoise Marker: 01-01-2010 / 08-29-2010 (1 incidents / 7 months)

Drug Seizures – Comstock and North, 01/01/2010 through 02/23/2011

• Seven subjects walking through the brush from the Rio Grande towards US-90, NW of

Comstock. The Agents apprehended all subjects and seized a total of 451.75 lbs of marijuana.

One subject was turned over to Del Rio Sector Juvenile Coordinator. The DEA took custody of

the six adult subjects and the marijuana.

• Observed several individuals hiding in the brush SE of the Shumla Roadside Park, NW of

Comstock. The Agent guided others to the area where they observed one individual standing

and four lying near bundles which were found to contain a total of 243.16 lbs of marijuana. The

DEA took custody of the contraband and the five subjects.

Additional information (cont)USBP Agents utilizing night vision located:



Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment

Map of Drug Seizures this reporting period for

the Del Rio Sector:

This reporting period, there was an

increase in stolen vehicles recovered and

total pounds of marijuana seized. Both

more than doubled. The amount of

marijuana seized went from 2,080 lbs last

reporting period to 5,084 lbs this period.

This reporting period, a 12-year-old IA was

apprehended with a group of backpackers

who were carrying 451.75 lbs of marijuana.

Map of Stolen Vehicles Recovered this

reporting period for the Del Rio Sector:

Stolen vehicle recoveries increased from five last

reporting period to eleven this reporting period.

Bailouts also increased from five to eleven. All of

the stolen vehicle recoveries and bailouts were in

the Dimmitt Co area. This increase in stolen

vehicles recovered is in line with recoveries of

stolen vehicles comparable to last year.

N

N


Del Rio Sector Unified Command Sector Assessment (cont)

In the last 60 days, we have seen an increase in marijuana seizures in the northwest end of Val

Verde Co. There have been four seizures of marijuana since the first of January; in 2010, from

January 1 thru August 29, there was only one seizure in the northwest end of Val Verde Co. This

change in activity may be due in part to the increased activity of the Mexican Military in the area.

N


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 SECTOR16 – 22 FEB 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 4

Bailouts 4

Criminal Arrests 6

Fugitive Arrests 0


Pursuits 2

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 48

IAs/USBP 811

OTMs 54

OTM Countries

Bolivia 1

Colombia 1

Dominican Republic 2

El Salvador 13

Guatemala 11

Honduras 18

India 3

Peru 2

Sri Lanka 3

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 13.78 lbs

Heroin 0 lbs

Methamphetamine 0 lbs

Currency $0.00

Other 0

Weapons

Handgun(s) 0

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 10

Recovered 5


Laredo Sector


$4,502

$1,430

$7,515

$0$0

$1,000

$2,000

$3,000

$4,000

$5,000

$6,000

$7,000

$8,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Laredo UC Currency Seizures

4,094.64 4,484.40

12,061.33

2,954.00

0.00

2,000.00

4,000.00

6,000.00

8,000.00

10,000.00

12,000.00

14,000.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Laredo UC Marijuana Seizures

109.48

0.095.62

13.78

0.00

20.00

40.00

60.00

80.00

100.00

120.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Laredo UC Cocaine Seizures

519

471

544

811

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Laredo UC Illegal Aliens



On 15 FEB 2011, Jim Hogg Co SO Deputies attempted

to stop a vehicle traveling northbound on FM-1017

approximately 20 miles South of Hebbronville, TX. The

vehicle initially pulled over, then sped off and a pursuit

ensued. The vehicle drove through a fence and the

driver absconded into the brush, the vehicle could not

be located. On 16 FEB 2011, agencies with NG Aircrew

support located the vehicle in the brush. The vehicle

contained 73 bundles of marijuana weighing 843 lbs

The vehicle was seized by Jim Hogg Co SO.


On 16 FEB 2011, Webb Co SO Deputies were traveling southbound on Jennings Rd.

in Aguilares, TX, when deputies noticed a white F-350 pickup truck traveling at 60

mph on a 30 mph zone traveling northbound. As deputies initiated a traffic stop, the

pickup suddenly stopped and a male subject bailed out of the vehicle and led to a

foot pursuit into heavy wooded area. The Deputies searched the vehicle and

discovered a concealed compartment. Webb Co SO K-9 inspection revealed 38

bundles of marijuana, weighing 883.2 lbs. The vehicle was seized.


AGUILARES

N


Additional Information (cont)

On 16 FEB 2011, apprehended 10 subjects in the

vicinity of the Zachary Ranch near Laredo. (USBP

Laredo South)


vicinity of Zachary Ranch near Laredo. (USBP

Laredo South)


vicinity of Apache Ranch near Laredo. (USBP

Laredo West)

On 17 FEB 2011, apprehended six subjects in the

vicinity of the Briscoe Ranch near Laredo. (USBP

Laredo West)

On 18 FEB 2011, apprehended nine subjects in the

brush near Laredo. (USBP Laredo West)

On 18 FEB 2011, apprehended nine subjects in the

vicinity of the ―race track‖ near Rio Bravo, TX.

(USBP Laredo South)

USBP, assisted by NG AVN UH-72:

Three day total: 59 IAs apprehended

N



• On 21 FEB 2011, working the area of El Cenizo,

TX, encountered a group of eight subjects

carrying large bundles. Agents identified

themselves and the subjects dropped the bundles

and absconded back to the Mexican side. The

• On 22 FEB 2011, at the IH-35 checkpoint Laredo North, seized 18.1

lbs of marijuana, a 2002 Kia Spectra, and arrested one female

subject. The subject and contraband were turned over to Webb Co

SO. (Laredo North)

• On 22 FEB 2011, at the IH-35 checkpoint seized 8.9 lbs of abandoned marijuana

from the luggage compartment of a commercial bus. The contraband was turned

over to DEA. (Laredo North)

USBP Agents:

• On 18 FEB 2011, working the IH-35 checkpoint

near Laredo, TX, initiated a secondary inspection on a

red 2010 Freightliner tractor being towed by a white

2010 Freightliner tractor with WI license plates. The

agents seized 155.5 lbs of Marijuana concealed in the

cab of the tractor being towed. The driver was

arrested and the vehicles were seized and turned over

to DEA. (Laredo North)

Agents seized five bundles of marijuana weighing 390 lbs and

apprehended a subject. (Laredo South)



On 22 FEB 2011, CBP-OFO officers working at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge in Laredo

seized 13.78 lbs of cocaine concealed within the drive shaft of a white 2005 Ford F-250

pickup truck. The male driver was arrested and vehicle was seized.

• On 22 FEB 2011, working at the checkpoint on SH-16, discovered 11 bundles of marijuana on a

2001 Daewoo Nubira (4-dr sedan)with a total of 27.8 lbs. The subject, marijuana, and vehicle

were turned over to Jim Hogg Co SO.

• On 17 FEB 2011, received a call from a

concerned rancher about possible illegal

contraband in the El Maguey Ranch in

Hebbronville, TX. Agents responded and

recovered a total of 207.3 lbs of abandoned

marijuana with an estimated value of

$165,840.00.

Hebbronville USBP Agents:


• On 20 FEB 2011, took custody of a white 2002 Ford F-250 pickup,

from USBP. The vehicle was located near intersection of SH-44 and

US-83. The driver bailed out and absconded. The vehicle was

reported stolen out of San Antonio.

• On 20 FEB 2011, attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a 2003 Ford F-250. The

vehicle refused to stop and drove off the roadway. The vehicle then travelled

southeast on RR-3408 for approximately 3 miles before driving off the roadway

and into the brush. The driver bailed out and absconded. The vehicle was

abandoned several hundred yards south of RR-3408 and was found to be stolen.

No contraband recovered.


• On 21 FEB 2011, discovered 301 lbs of marijuana in the rear seat of

the vehicle during a traffic stop. The driver was arrested and vehicle

was seized by Webb Co.

• On 15 FEB 2011, performed a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling northbound on

US-83. During an interview of the driver, the Trooper could see a blanket covering

bundles in plain sight. A search of the vehicle revealed five bundles of marijuana

weighing 119.2 lbs. The driver was arrested and the vehicle was seized.

A Texas Highway Patrol Trooper :


Laredo Unified Command Sector Assessment

The Laredo Unified Command had a significant decrease in all recorded statistics for this reporting

period with exception to illegal alien apprehensions that saw a 49% increase from 544 to 811.

Apprehensions by USBP are up this reporting period, as well as USBP apprehensions assisted by

US National Guard Aviation, wherein 59 apprehensions were made this reporting period.

IH-35 and US-83 remain active for illicit drug traffic. The Hebbronville areas of FM-1017 and SH-16

continue to see activity, especially at or near the checkpoints. The most popular concealment

methods for large narcotic seizures continue to be commercial motor vehicles.

There were numerous marijuana loads seized with small amounts (under 400 lbs). However, there

were two notable marijuana seizures and one notable cocaine seizure. Jim Hogg Co Deputies

seized 843 lbs of marijuana following a pursuit. Webb Co SO Deputies seized 883.2 lbs of

marijuana as a result of a traffic stop. CBP-OFO officers working at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge in

Laredo, TX, discovered 13.78 lbs of cocaine concealed within the drive shaft of a white 2005 Ford

F-250 pickup truck.

The decrease in activity this period is possibly related to increased enforcement actions by the

Mexican Authorities as indicated by several ―spot reports‖ on Nuevo Laredo, Mexico activity

received by the JOIC.


K E N E D Y

S T A R RH 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 SECTOR16 – 22 FEB 2011


Raymondville PDRio Grande City PDRoma PD San Benito PD San Juan PDWeslaco PDUniv of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) PD

USBPCBP – OFOICE USCG Starr CO HIDTADPSTPWD TMF

Cameron CO SOHidalgo CO SOKenedy CO SOStarr CO SOWillacy CO SOBrownsville PD Harlingen PD Hidalgo PD

La Grulla PD La Joya PDMercedes PDMission PD Palmview PDPenitas PD Pharr PDPort Isabel PD




Rio Grande Valley Sector

The Unified Command provided the following reports:

Absconds 0

Bailouts 2

Criminal Arrests 47

Fugitive Arrests 4


Pursuits 2

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 15

IAs/USBP 711

OTMs 291

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 56.40 lbs

Heroin 7.6 lbs


Currency $547,004.00

Other 0

Weapons

Handgun(s) 3

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0

Southbound

Weapons

Handgun(s) 0

Long Gun(s) 8

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 2


Rio Grande Valley Sector


$154,381

$1,052

$160,519

$547,004

$0

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

RGV UC Currency Seizures

27,077.12

37,574.30

31,398.42

19,613.35

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

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

RGV UC Marijuana Seizures

221.10

66.13 63.30

56.40

0.00

50.00

100.00

150.00

200.00

250.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

RGV UC Cocaine Seizures

422

883

525

711

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

RGV UC Illegal Aliens


Vallucos Pharrolito Loco Trece Tango Blaster Texas Chicano Brotherhood

Latin

Kings

Raza Unida South Side Bandito South Side Folk

Po’ Boys Sureno 13 Texas Syndicate Tri City Bombers

The Hidalgo Co SO Gang Intelligence Unit reported 46 gang member arrests during this reporting

period. These arrests were made by 10 different agencies in the RGV sector. The gang members

were arrested for offenses such as parole violation, aggravated robbery, theft of property,

possession of marijuana in a drug free zone, possession of controlled substance, driving while

intoxicated w/ child, harassment of public servant, assault on public servant, assault causes bodily

injury, unauthorized use of vehicle, hindering apprehension known sex offender, bench warrant,

contempt of child support, unlawful possession of firearm by a felon, no drivers license, issuance of

bad check, aggravated kidnapping, possession of paraphernalia, place where weapon is prohibited,

assault of family member, and public intoxication. The arrestees have gang affiliation with:

Gang activity

Josue Lopez, 19

Jesus Cervantes, 17On 21 FEB 2011, Josue Lopez, Jesus Cervantes and a juvenile were

arrested by McAllen PD after they allegedly shot a subject in the right

leg and a second subject in the back. Prior to the shooting, a family

was gathered at a residence in the 2200 block of West Fresno St,

when three men armed with a shotgun and metal pipes walked up to

the backyard through an alley and shouted ―SSB,‖ the initials of the

SOUTHSIDE BANDITOS GANG. The victims were then shot and

the suspects fled. Both victims are expected to recover.


Gang activity (cont) THP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 2007

Nissan on US-83 in Mercedes, TX. During the

course of the interview with the driver, the

Trooper noticed several tattoos. When Trooper

enquired about the tattoos, driver openly

admitted that he was a VALLUCO. The subject

was subsequently released.



Fallen ICE Agent Jaime Zapata was laid to rest in Roselawn

Cemetery in Brownsville, TX. Over a thousand people were in

attendance at the Brownsville Events Center for the funeral Mass.

The events center was full, and it was estimated that hundreds

more watched the Mass on a large screen outdoors. The nation’s

show of support was unmistakable. Hundreds of federal, state and

local law enforcement representatives from the Rio Grande Valley

and throughout the country came, joined by three of the country’s

top officials — U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet

Napolitano, U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. and ICE

Director John Morton.



• Temporarily halted traffic at the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge after a suspect

in the southbound lane hit a CBP Officer with a vehicle. The vehicle made it further

down the bridge after being spiked at which time the driver carjacked another

vehicle and continued south into Reynosa. Mexican soldiers were mobilized on

their side of the bridge and recovered the car used to hit the CBP Officer. The

second vehicle was found abandoned in Mexico. Search of both vehicles failed to

reveal any contraband.

• At the B&M Bridge in Brownsville inspected a 1996 Dodge Ram pickup with TX

license plates. The Officers found $ 381,060.00 USD in currency concealed in the

vehicle’s spare tire. The male USC was arrested and the vehicle seized.

CBP Officers:



On 14 FEB 2011, ICE Agents acting on information, conducted a search warrant at

an alleged stash house in the La Carla Rd area north of Rio Grande City, TX. Inside

the dwelling, Agents seized $165,730 USD concealed in stuffed animals and a video

camera case. JESUS PROTILLO-TORRES was arrested after Agents found the US

Currency, a .357-caliber pistol, a Marlin .22 rifle, a Sterling Arms .32 special semi-

automatic pistol, numerous rounds of .223 ammunition, and equipment typically

utilized in repackaging marijuana. PROTILLO, who presented a fake Texas drivers

license, is an illegal immigrant and has been arrested by federal authorities five

times in the past.

CBP Officers at the Hidalgo POE searched a Mexican taxicab. During which the

Officers inspected the luggage of a US citizen and found 7.58 lbs of brown heroin

concealed in four refried bean cans. The male USC was arrested and the vehicle

seized.

Sullivan City PD Officers attempted to conduct a

traffic stop. After a brief pursuit, the driver bailed out

of the vehicle near Patricio Perez road. The driver

absconded, and when Officers searched the

vehicle, they discovered several bundles of

marijuana weighing 600 lbs.



• On 21 FEB 2011 at 15:07 hours, Mexican 1999 Freightliner being driven by a

Mexican citizen. The Officers inspected the cargo of limes and found 4,024.5 lbs

of marijuana co-mingled with the commodity. The male Mexican was arrested and

the trailer seized.

CBP Officers at the Pharr POE Import Lot inspected a:

• On 22 FEB 2011 at 15:45 hours, Mexican 1995 GMC tractor truck being driven by

a Mexican citizen. The Officers inspected the cargo of limes and found 2,731.5

lbs of marijuana co-mingled with the commodity. The male Mexican was released

and the trailer seized.



Cameron Co SO Investigators at the Gateway Bridge in Brownsville seized one AK-47

assault rifle from a Mexican male attempting to cross the weapon into Mexico. The

weapon was concealed in a toy box.

Brownsville PD received a tip about drugs being sold from a residence in Brownsville.

The Agents obtained consent to search the residence and discovered 220 lbs of

marijuana wrapped in 15 bundles and 23.3 grams of cocaine. Three subjects were

arrested.

Hidalgo PD assisted USBP and OFO in seizing

six AK-47 rifles and one CETME (now H&K)

from a Ford Taurus at the Hidalgo POE. ICE

assumed custody of the subject and OFO took

custody of the weapons and vehicle.


Additional information (cont)Mission PD assisted USBP Agents in a vehicle pursuit on Military Highway and South Conway. The driver

of the blue F 250 with Texas plates refused to stop, leading Officers on a high-speed pursuit until the

driver and passenger bailed out of the moving vehicle. The Officer pursued on foot and apprehended the

subject after the officer’s K-9 stopped him. The IA driver was transported to the hospital, treated for dog

bites, and then to Mission PD Jail. Officers at the scene of the vehicle stop discovered the truck to be

stolen out of Pharr and was carrying 13 bundles of marijuana weighing a total of 1,147 lbs. The passenger

absconded and was not located.



Brownsville PD received a tip about a white

Toyota Sienna with MS license plates, loaded

with illegal drugs. Agents with the Special

Investigation unit set up surveillance, spotted

the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop US-83

and East Price Rd. A K-9 Officer conducted a

search and found 56.34 lbs of cocaine in 20

bundles hidden in a false compartment under

the driver and passenger seats.

Hidalgo Co SO Deputies pursued a Chevy Impala that was packed with

more than 400 lbs of marijuana. The subject led Deputies on a pursuit

before hitting a median on US-83. After bailing out, he tried to get away

on foot, but the man broke his ankle when he jumped from the

expressway. The suspect is in the hospital and is expected to recover.



• Conducted a traffic stop on a 2000 Cadillac Deville on US-83 near Sullivan City for

traffic violation. When the Trooper made contact with the driver, the Trooper

observed signs of criminal activity. He then observed several large bundles wrapped

in clear plastic in plain view. A search of the vehicle revealed 300 lbs of marijuana in

the rear seat and trunk area.

• Attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a 2005 Pontiac Sunfire on FM-1430 near

Garciasville in Starr Co. The driver led the Trooper on a short pursuit and bailed out.

The Trooper apprehended the driver. The driver then consented to a search of the

vehicle where Trooper found 263.25 lbs of marijuana in eight bundles. The male

USC was arrested.

• Conducted a traffic stop on a 1993 white GMC pickup. The Trooper made contact

with the driver Jose Luis Montoya (DOB 09/12/1986) and observed the passenger

attempting to hide a box of .380 caliber ammunition. A consent to pat down revealed

a hidden .380 caliber hand gun hidden in the waist of subject, who also gave a false

name and DOB. The Trooper identified the subject, who was wanted in Cameron Co

for Aggravated Assault. The subject stated that if the gun had been loaded, he would

have shot the Trooper. The subject also stated that the next time any officer that

stops him, he is going to shoot first.

A THP Trooper:


Ground and Air Operation Elements seized 341 lbs of marijuana, andarrested 1 subject.

Ground and Air Operation Elements arrested 28 IAs in Abrams, TX,

Ground and Air Operation Elements located10 IAs (four Indians, one Sri Lankan, oneSalvadoran, one Guatemalan, and threeMexican nationals) north of McAllen.

OP

ERA

TIO

N S

EVEN

PIN

ESJo

int

Bo

rde

r M

issi

on

In a joint operation, the Texas Department of Public Safety (Ranger Recon Team, SWAT, AVN,

CID, THP, and BSOC), USBP, ICE, CBP, Texas Parks and Wildlife Division, Texas Military

Forces, and other local law enforcement agencies, targeted rural areas being exploited by

drug traffickers and alien smugglers in the Rio Grande Valley area. The RGV JOIC provided

coordination efforts prior to, during and after the mission.


Texas Rangers and USBP, with air assistance from DPS 108, observed a raft loaded withsuspected narcotics and 15 subjects crossing the river near La Puerta, TX. A white Dodge pickuptruck along with a second DTO support unit were converged upon by Recon Team elements. Allsubjects absconded. USBP Agents seized both vehicles and 172 packages of marijuana, totaling2,011 lbs. The USBP International Liaison Unit notified the Mexican Military of the situation andMexican Military were seen responding to the Rio Grande and seized both boats utilized tosmuggle the marijuana and seven bundles of narcotics (approximately 300-400 lbs.). Thevehicles and marijuana were turned over to DPS CID.

OP

ERA

TIO

N S

EVEN

PIN

ESJo

int

Bo

rde

r M

issi

on

Mexican Military

Mexican Military

Mexican Military


787 lbs of marijuana was loaded into the red Mitsubishi Montero Sport at the Rio Grande nearPeñitas, TX. The vehicle’s tires were spiked by Palmview PD which led to the load driverswerving and crashing ultimately his vehicle. No injuries were reported.

OP

ERA

TIO

N S

EVEN

PIN

ESJo

int

Bo

rde

r M

issi

on


Ground and Air Operation Elements in Falfurrias areaapprehended 11 IAs.

Ground and Air Operation Elements in Starr Co arrested one subject and seized 847 lbs ofmarijuana from a black Ford F-150.

OP

ERA

TIO

N S

EVEN

PIN

ESJo

int

Bo

rde

r M

issi

on

CUMULATIVE OPERATION TOTALS (to be cont in next week’s BOSA)

Marijuana seized/recovered 4,247 lbs valued at $3,397,600

Vehicles seized/recovered 6

Subjects arrested 8

Illegal aliens apprehended 54


The RGV Unified Command agencies were responsible for the seizure of 19,613 lbs of marijuana,

which is a decreased from last week’s 31,398.42 lbs seized. Cocaine seizures decreased from last

week to a combined agency total of 56.4 lbs. The USBP, CBP OFO, Mission PD, DPS THP and

CID, Cameron Co SO, Hidalgo PD, Hidalgo Co SO, ICE and Brownsville PD contributed

significantly to the marijuana seizures.

RGV Unified Command agencies continued in the interception and arrest of gang members

averaging about 45 gang member arrests per week. Many gang members were engaged in a

variety of criminal activities when taken into custody. The VALLUCO, SURENO 13, TEXAS

CHICANO BROTHERHOOD, TEXAS SYNDICTE and LATIN KINGS are the top five gangs with

most significant number of arrests in the RGV UC Sector.

Currency and weapons seizures rose sharply this week. UC Agencies manning the southbound

lanes at the ports of entry and successfully apprehended criminals heading southbound with guns

and currency. Eight assault rifles were also seized during southbound operations.

The Mexican Military and Mexican federal authorities responded to several requests by the USBP

International Liaison Unit to search the south-side of the Rio Grande. The Mexican Military took

members of the DTOs into custody and seized narcotics that had been taken back into Mexico after

a failed venture.

Gulf Cartel and Zeta factions continued to confront each other on the city streets of Reynosa and

Matamoros. Several DTO members were either killed or taken into custody during these

encounters. There was a report of a 5 ton seizure in Mexico just south of Reynosa effected by the

Mexican Military. Due to the loss of such a large load, the cartels will undoubtedly need to place

more narcotics into the pipeline after the loss of this large load.

RGV JOIC Sector Assessment


K L E B E R G

N U E C E S

J I MW E L L S

B E E

L I V EO A K

K A R N E S

G O L I A D

D e W I T T

L A V A C A

J A C K S O N

R E F U G I O

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 SECTOR16 – 22 FEB 2011


USBPCBP – OFO ICEFBI ATFDEAUSCGHouston 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 23

Bailouts 4

Criminal Arrests 293

Fugitive Arrests 142


Pursuits 6

Scouts/Decoys 0


IAs/Referrals 13

IAs/USBP 0

OTMs 1

OTM Countries Honduras 1

Contraband Seizures


Cocaine 10.10 lbs

Heroin 0

Methamphetamine 0

Currency $183,287.00

Other

$1,950.00 Counterfeit

money orders,

Xanax (2 pills),

Hydrocodone (0.16 lbs)

Weapons

Handgun(s) 0

Long Gun(s) 0

Explosive(s) 0


Stolen 0

Recovered 3


Coastal Bend Sector


$74,778

$7,157

$141,186

$183,287

$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

$140,000

$160,000

$180,000

$200,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Am

ou

nt

of

US

Cu

rre

ncy

Coastal Bend UC Currency Seizures

636.45

2,685.90

274.87

1,112.32

0.00

500.00

1,000.00

1,500.00

2,000.00

2,500.00

3,000.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Mar

ijuan

a Se

ize

d

Coastal Bend UC Marijuana Seizures

1.73 0.09

95.28

10.10

0.00

20.00

40.00

60.00

80.00

100.00

120.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Po

un

ds

of

Co

cain

e S

eiz

ed

Coastal Bend UC Cocaine Seizures

0

0 0 00

0

0

0

0

1

1

1

1

1

1

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Nu

mb

er

of

IAs

Ap

pre

he

nd

ed

Coastal Bend UC Illegal Aliens


Gang Activity

Alice PD responded to a disturbance at where

two subjects were arrested and 31 grams

cocaine, marijuana and Xanax (2 pills) were

seized from a confirmed LATIN KING street

gang member and an affiliate.

Additional informationThe South Texas Narcotics Task Force (Kingsville Task Force) seized 9.5 lbs of cocaine concealed

in the gas tank of a 1993 Nissan Sentra registered in Mexico. The vehicle had been left unattended

in a local parking lot. Follow-up investigation revealed that the driver, who was not located, had

been taking the load from Brownsville to Houston on US 77 North. (Reported last week - photos now

available)


Additional Information (cont)THP Nueces Co seized 10 lbs. of marijuana concealed in the void space behind the driver and

passenger seat belts of a 2002 Chevrolet pickup truck. The driver was from Rio Grande City, TX,

and traveling to Houston on US-77N.

.

Concealed marijuana


Marijuana behind seat

False compartment

with trap door under

bed of truck

THP Lavaca Co seized 934 lbs of marijuana concealed in a hidden compartment in the bed of 2005

Ford F-350. Additionally, several bundles were found inside the vehicle behind the driver’s seat.

The driver was from Mexico and traveling from Mexico to Houston on US-77A in Lavaca Co near

Yoakum.



THP Kleberg Co seized

44.28 lbs of marijuana

concealed in the gas

tank of a 2002 Isuzu

Axio. The female driver

and female passenger

were from Rio Grande

City, TX, and traveling

on US-77 from there to

an unknown destination.

Marijuana inside gas tank



THP Victoria Co seized 100 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 2001

Dodge Ram pickup truck. The driver was from Macon, GA, and traveling on US-59N

from Laredo to Houston.

Scope view of marijuana in the gas tank


False compartment in paint bucket

Tile box and

tile with

centers cut

out for the

currency.

CVE Brooks Co seized $85,254.00 USD concealed in a false bottom of a 5-gallon

paint bucket and inside a box of vinyl tile with the centers cut out. The driver was

from Rio Grande City, TX, and traveling on US-281S from Houston to Rio Grande

City in a 1997 GMC pickup truck.


CVE in Refugio Co seized 152.5 lbs of marijuana concealed in a false floor of a 1999 Ford

Windstar. The male driver and female passenger were from Control, Tamaulipas (Mexico) and

traveling from there to Houston on US-77N.

Compartment under floor



33 bundles removed from gas tank

Additional information (cont)THP Strike Team in Refugio Co seized 38.30 lbs of marijuana concealed in the gas tank of a 2003

Ford Ranger pickup truck. The driver was from Mission, TX, and traveling to Houston on US-77N.

Recent tool markings on fuel cell

Marijuana inside gasoline tank



• 51 lbs of marijuana concealed inside

a false compartment (wall) of a utility

trailer being towed by a 2000

Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck.

The male driver stated he was paid

$200 for fuel and was to receive an

additional $500 to transport the

marijuana from Mission, TX, to

Houston on US-77N.

• 63.8 lbs of marijuana packaged in 56

bundles and concealed in the gas tank of

a 2000 Chevrolet Venture. The male

driver stated he was traveling from

Donna, TX, to Cypress, TX, on US-77N.

Kleberg Co SO and USBP seized:

• 61.4 lbs of marijuana concealed

in the convertible top storage

area of a 1997 BMW 328I.The

female driver stated she was

traveling from Raymondville, TX,

to Houston on US-77 North.



THP Victoria Co seized $98,066.00 USD

concealed in frame rails of a 24 ft flatbed

car-hauler trailer. The driver was from Mission,

TX, and traveling from there to Houston along

US-59S.

ANALYST NOTE: Utilizing trailers towed by passenger

vehicles, to include gooseneck trailers and livestock trailers,

has been a continuing trend noted in last week’s BOSA. The

total for the past few months is now six with this incident

being the second reported to UC in the Victoria area.


Marijuana seizures increased sharply in the Coastal Bend Sector over the last reporting

period from 274.8 lbs to 1,126.32 lbs, while cocaine seizures have decreased from 95.28 lbs

to 10.10 lbs. Two large US currency seizures totaling $183,287.00 USD were reported by

THP in Victoria Co (US-59) and CVE in Brooks Co (US-281), Texas, which was an increase

from $141,186.00 last week.

IA referrals, absconds, bailouts, and pursuits increased this reporting period; however, stolen

and recovered vehicles decreased. There were three Mexican Nationals apprehended for

narcotics smuggling this reporting period. US-59, US-77N, and US-281N continue to be the

busiest avenues for significant drug and currency seizures along the corridor from the Rio

Grande Valley to Houston.

A review of Falfurrias checkpoint reports revealed that between 17 FEB and 23 FEB, 2011,

there were 2,482.35 lbs of marijuana and no cocaine seized at the Falfurrias checkpoint (US-

281N). A tanker trailer with a large load of marijuana weighing 1,965.2 lbs was seized at the

Falfurrias checkpoint. There were three smaller marijuana seizures involved two tractor

trailers and a commercial bus at the checkpoint.

A review of Sarita checkpoint reports revealed that between 17 FEB and 23 FEB, 2011, there

were 282.2 lbs of marijuana and no cocaine reported as seized. There were three seizures at

the Sarita checkpoint from northbound commercial buses. The increase of marijuana seizures

and the decrease of cocaine seizures at these checkpoints mirror the seizure trends

elsewhere in the sector.

Commercial bus seizures concealed in luggage at both Falfurrias and Sarita checkpoints

went up this reporting period.

Coastal Bend JOIC’s Sector Assessment


Statewide CorridorSeizures

THP [ Carson Co.] –• 5.28 lbs of crystal methamphetamine – Inside rocker

panel; Phoenix, AR to Oklahoma City, OK.• $12,373 USD – luggage; Nashville, TN to Santa Rosa,

CA.• $196,990 USD – Bed of truck; New York to Phoenix, AR. • 100 lbs of marijuana – Luggage; Los Angeles, CA to

New York City, New York.


THP [Nacogdoches Co.] –• $145,848 USD – False

compartment within gooseneck trailer; Supply, NC to Houston, TX.

THP [Liberty Co.] –• 1500 tabs of Hydrocodone, 1500 tabs of

Xanax, 4 oz. liquid codeine, and $8,000 USD – Handbag in rear storage area; Houston, TX to Tyler, TX.

• 35 lbs of marijuana – Trunk; Spring, TX to Pittsburgh, PA

THP [Potter Co.] –• 23.04 lbs of hydroponic marijuana and 1.6 grms of

cannabutter – Trunk; Adrian, TX to Shamrock, TX.

CID [Lubbock Co.] –• 0.016 lbs of

methamphetamine, 0.03 oz of marijuana, $6,201 USD, and an RG .22 Cal – trunk; ukwn city in TX to Slaton, TX.

THP [Oldham Co.] –• 2.5 lbs methamphetamine –

Gas tank; Santa Ana, CA to Arlington, TX.

• 4.06 lbs marijuana – trunk; Ventura, CA to Virginia.

THP [Van Zandt Co.] –• 298 lbs of marijuana– floor;

Tucson, AZ to Brandon, FL.

THP [Cooke Co.] –• 3.13 lbs marijuana – Coolers in back

of vehicle; Nuevo Laredo, MX to Oklahoma City, OK.

• 38 lbs of marijuana – Inner liner of ice chest; Dallas, TX to Oklahoma City, OK

CID [Bexar Co.] –• $10,082 USD, 10.5 lbs of

marijuana, and 0.1 lbs of ecstasy –Buy/Bust Warrant; San Antonio, TX.

THP [Ellis Co.] –• 542 lbs of marijuana -- trailer;

Weslaco, TX to Greenville, TN


18 FEB 2011: THP – Mount Pleasant conducted a traffic stop on a 2011 Mitsubishi Galant on IH-

30E. Thirty-eight bundles of marijuana were seized from duffle bags within the trunk. One subject

from Tennessee was arrested. The marijuana originated in El Paso, TX, destined for Knoxville, TN.


15 FEB 2011: A Georgia State Patrol Trooper stopped a

2006 Toyota Sienna with TX license plates on IH-85 in

Troup Co, GA, for a traffic violation. The occupants of the

van included the driver, the registered owner, also a

resident of Laredo, TX, and East Chicago, IN, and the

passenger, a citizen of Mexico, who claimed to be

returning to either Laredo or Houston, TX. A consensual

search of the van disclosed $400,000 USD in a false

compartment built into the roof. Subject vehicle contained

6 cell phones and obvious tampering of a interior light

which led the Trooper to the discovery of the false

compartment. (Information and pictures courtesy of Gulf Coast HIDTA

and the Georgia State Patrol)

6 cell phones and map

Indicator: Tampered lamp

Painted non

factory screw

in lamp

apparatus


23 FEB 2011: THP – Mount Pleasant Trooper

conducted a traffic stop on a 2005 Dodge Ram 3500,

towing a 20-ft lowboy trailer, both registered in

Florida. A search of the vehicle and trailer yielded a

compartment built between the frame rails on the

trailer. 298 lbs of marijuana was seized. Origin was

Tucson, AZ, and the destination was Florida.


16 FEB 2011: THP Alice, with the

assistance of Jim Wells Co SO,

conducted a traffic stop on a 2004

Jeep Liberty on US-281. A consent

to search revealed 20 bundles of

marijuana, totaling 52.50 lbs,

concealed in the gas tank. One

subject was arrested. The vehicle

originated in Mercedes, TX, and

was destined for Dallas, TX.

16 FEB 2011: THP Waco, with the assistance of

Woodway PD, conducted a traffic stop on a 2002

Chevrolet Pickup truck on IH-35. THP K-9 gave a

positive free air search to the vehicle and a subsequent

search revealed discrepancies around the gas tank.

Upon removing the gas tank, an access door was

located revealing nine kilos of cocaine. The vehicle

originated in Laredo, TX was destined for Dallas, TX.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/df/US_281.svg


THP Cleveland, Liberty County:

17 FEB 2011: THP Cleveland conducted a traffic stop on

a 2010 Ford Edge on US-59. A consent to search

revealed 1,500 Hydrocodone tablets, 1,500 Xanax

tablets, 4oz of liquid Codeine and $8,000 USD hidden

within the vehicle. One subject was arrested. The vehicle

originated in Houston, TX, and was destined for Tyler, TX.

19 FEB 2011: THP Cleveland conducted a traffic stop on

a 2009 Ford Edge on US-59. A consent to search was

denied and the K-9 Unit responded giving a positive free

air search. A subsequent probable cause search revealed three

bundles of marijuana (32 lbs) and one bundles of cocaine (323

grams). One suspect was arrested and later admitted that the drugs

originated from Crosby, TX, and were destined for Livingston, TX.

21 FEB 2011: THP Cleveland conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Cadillac DTS on US-59 and

arrested one individual. A probable cause search revealed four bundles of marijuana (35 lbs)

hidden in luggage located in the trunk of the vehicle. The vehicle originated in Spring, TX,

and was destined for Pennsylvania, PA.


17 FEB 2011: THP Nacogdoches and CID Lufkin conducted a

traffic stop on a 1999 Ford truck, pulling a 1994 Sundowner trailer

on US-59. A consent to search revealed $145,848 USD wrapped

in bundles, and concealed within a false compartment in the

gooseneck trailer. One subject was arrested. The vehicle

originated in Supply, NC, and was destined for Houston, TX.

22 FEB 2011: With the assistance of Oldham Co SO,

THP Vega conducted a traffic stop on a 2008 Pontiac,

Grand Prix with MO license plates, on IH-40. A

consent to search was denied and the K9 Unit was

deployed. Following a positive free air search of the

vehicle, a subsequent search revealed 18.15 lbs of

marijuana and 163 grams of hashish hidden in luggage

in the trunk. Two subjects were arrested. The narcotics

originated in Napa Valley, CA, and were destined for

Girardeau, MO.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/US_59.svg


24 FEB 2011: THP Panhandle conducted a traffic stop on a 1999 Nissan Maxima on

IH-40. A consent to search revealed five bundles of crystal meth (totaling 5.28 lbs) concealed

inside the rocker panels. Access to compartment was gained by removing both front tires and inner

plastic wheel wells, exposing Bondo and black paint. Two suspects were arrested. The vehicle

originated in Phoenix, AZ and was destined for Oklahoma City, OK.

18 FEB 2011: THP Panhandle, with the assistance

of DEA-Amarillo and ICE-Amarillo, conducted a

traffic stop on a 2006 Honda Pick Up on IH-40. A

consent to search revealed $196,990 USD inside a

cardboard box in the bed of the truck. The Trooper

recognized that the box was prepared to ship to and

from known cities of narcotics and

drug proceeds. Two suspects were

arrested. The vehicle was en route

from Phoenix, AZ to New York.


18 FEB 2011: While conducting an

marijuana investigation, Harris Co SO,

DEA-Houston and Houston PD assisted

CID with a search warrant at a

residence in south Houston. A

subsequent search resulted in the

seizure of 170 hydroponic plants and

4.45 lbs of MDMA in tablet and powder

form. Three suspects were arrested.


22 FEB 2011: THP

Amarillo conducted a

traffic stop on a 2005

Lincoln LLS on IH-40. A

consent to search was

ultimately granted and a

subsequent search

revealed 23.04 lbs of

hydroponic marijuana in

the trunk of the vehicle,

and 1.6 grams of

―cannabutter‖ in the

passenger’s purse. Two

suspects were arrested.

The vehicle originated in

Adrian, TX and was

destined for Shamrock,

TX.


SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICOSIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN MEXICO



CD. JUÁREZ – On 15 FEB 2011, the home and personal

belongings of the Reyes Salazar family in Guadalupe Distrito

Bravo was intentionally set on fire. The home and a small

neighborhood store belonging to the family had been the target of

criminals for several weeks. The Reyes Salazar family has been

protesting the lack of security and has been staging a hunger

strike in front of the Attorney General’s office for the Northern

Zone in Ciudad Juárez since 8 FEB 2011. The hunger strike

follows the kidnapping of several family members and is an effort

to place pressure on authorities to help locate their missing family

members. There is no police force left in Guadalupe, which is

located in the Juárez Valley. Mexican soldiers have been in place

to protect the residents, but without measurable success. Juárez

residents plan to protest recent attacks against activists and

generalized violence at noon Friday 25 FEB 2011 at the Bridge of

Americas.

Ruins of the Reyes Salazar family residence in Guadalupe D.B. in the Juarez Valley.

Mexican soldiers using buckets

of water to fight the fire

Significant events in Mexico


Significant events in Mexico

CD. JUÁREZ - On 17 FEB 2011, Ciudad Juarez Municipal

Police located a suspected group of carjackers traveling in a

white Ford Explorer in the Colinas del Norte subdivision. A

pursuit ensued with gunmen firing at police, and ended when

the Ford Explorer hit a power pole at Moro Macho and Arroyo

Juárez streets. The gunfight continued, resulting in the deaths

of two suspects and the wounding of a third. One police

officer was killed, and another seriously wounded. Carjacking

remains a major concern for the drivers in Ciudad Juárez.

The two deceased

suspects

One AK-47 and several handguns

were recovered at the scene

CD. JUÁREZ – A man and his eight-year old son

were shot and killed inside their Suburban, then their

bodies burned after gunmen doused them with

gasoline. The murders occurred on 16 FEB 2011 at

the intersection of Santos Dumont and Del Durazno

streets in the Villas Colonial subdivision.

CD. JUÁREZ – A young man was

shot and killed during the evening

of 16 FEB 2011 near the

intersection of Paseo del Pedrigal

and Durango streets in the

Rinconada de las Torres

subdivision. The man’s hands

were tied behind his back and he

was shot at least once in the back

of the head.


CD. JUÁREZ – A state police commander was shot and

killed outside his home after work on 17 FEB 2011. The

homicide occurred near the intersection of Hospital and

Nogal streets in colonia Lázaro Cárdenas.

Significant events in Mexico (cont)

CD. JUÁREZ – The bound and gagged bodies of a man and

woman were found behind Central Park near piles of trash on

18 FEB 2011. Their hands and feet were bound with grey

adhesive tape.

CD. JUÁREZ – A man in his early twenties

was beaten to death and his head smashed

with a large rock. The body was found early

morning on 19 FEB 2011 in a vacant lot in

colonia Del Carmen. Next to the body was

a message stating ―This is what is going to

happen to all from the barrio El Papalote.

Respectfully, AA.‖

CD. JUÁREZ – A gunman

boarded an public bus at the

intersection of Ejercito Nacional

and Gomez Morin and shot and

killed one male passenger. The

bus was the EX-41 route to

Porvenir. The murder occurred

during the afternoon on 19 FEB

2011.


CD. JUÁREZ – A man whose face was covered by

adhesive tape was shot and killed during the evening on

19 FEB 2011 behind the El Paseo strip mall. His body

was found on the sidewalk near Lopez Mateos and

Montemayor streets. It is believed the body was

dumped at the location.


CD. JUÁREZ – A man whose

hands and feet were bound

with adhesive tape was shot

and killed in a vacant lot

during the evening on 20 FEB

2011. The homicide occurred

near the intersection of

Estano and San Francisco

streets in colonia Arroyo

Colorado.

The number of DTO-related homicides in Ciudad

Juárez and surrounding communities continues

to increase. There have been 76 DTO related

homicides during this reporting period bringing

the total to 186 for the month of February and

406 for the year. The total homicides for 2010

were 147. An estimate predicts the death tally to

reach 5,000 this year unless conditions change.0

1000

2000

3000

4000

1607

26583111

406

DTO Related Deaths Juarez MX 2008 to Date

2008 2009 2010

2011



CD. JUÁREZ – A total of 57 people were executed in only four days, among

them five women between 17-20 FEB 2011. The wave of violence that swept

through Cd. Juárez this past weekend peaked with the executions of 43 people

between Friday thru Sunday. Among the dead were four police officers. The

killings started on 17 FEB 2011 with 14 people killed, including a police officer.

JUÁREZ – On 22 FEB 2011, high-ranking leader Luis

Humberto Peralta Hernández, alias "El Condor," of the

Vincente Carrillo-Fuentes (VCF) Cartel, aka the Juárez

Cartel, was killed in a gun battle with Federal Police

officers in the northern city of Chihuahua. Peralta

Hernández was one of Mexico's most-wanted men and

a top boss of a cartel that has disputed a large stretch

of the U.S.-Mexico border - a strategic smuggling route

with the Sinaloa Cartel. He has been linked to at least

96 murders and was wanted for homicide and

organized crime for approximately five years. Peralta

Hernández had worked at the Chihuahua state

Attorney General's office for nine years before

resigning in March 2009.

The mayor of Ciudad Juárez, Héctor Murguía Lardizábal, has been recently conferring this week

with Julian Leyzaola Perez, who had been the Police Chief in Tijuana, Baja California, from

December 2008 until October of 2010. Mayor Lardizábal identified Perez as a candidate for the

Police Chief position in Cd. Juárez. Hailed for his work against delinquency and decreasing all

criminal indices, in recent visits to Juárez, Perez raised the possibility that the operative plan he had

implemented successfully in Tijuana to fight organized crime could also work strategically in Juárez.

DECEASED

Luis HumbertoPERALTA-Hernandez

AKA COMA 2,LA PERA, FRUTAS,

CONDOR 2

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRmmFkQtENhGtuybOZ-oh7KtQBujr5mi2CWAXEOiLqaUPCT7rdY


REYNOSA - President Felipe Calderon visited the army

base in Reynosa to celebrate Mexican Army Day and

rally the troops in their fight against drug cartels.

Calderón said he will send four additional battalions of

about 650 soldiers each to Northeast Mexico to bolster

a military presence that already seen an increase in the

past two years. The president maintained his

determination to take down drug cartels that have

dominated much of the country, especially the state of

Tamaulipas. The president also announced that widows

of slain soldiers will receive a boost in benefits.

Calderón also stated that soldiers will receive an $83

monthly raise — a 120 percent increase from when

Calderón took office in late 2006. The President then

toured the army grounds in a Sand Cat, a new armored

vehicle that will be used to battle drug cartels along the

border.



ACAPULCO, GUERRERO – On 20 FEB 2011, a series of attacks on taxis in

Acapulco left 12 taxi drivers and/or passengers dead just hours before the

Mexican Open tennis tournament was scheduled to start. Police in Guerrero

state detained four suspects linked to some of the attacks. The suspects had

guns, a grenade and a machete that police say may have been used to

decapitate some of the victims. The attacks began 18 FEB 2011, when five

taxi drivers were found dead in or near their vehicles. The killings continued

Saturday, 19 FEB 2011, when a driver was found bound and shot to death

near his taxi, and two others were found dead of bullet wounds inside their

vehicles. One of the drivers had been beheaded. Gunmen opened fire on yet

another taxi, killing the driver and three passengers. On 20 FEB 2011, the

violence came closer to the city's tourist zone, where the tennis matches were

held. Five cars were set on fire and a man's body was found hacked to pieces

outside an apartment building. Dozens of cars have been set ablaze in

Acapulco in recent days for unknown reasons.



CHILPANCINGO, GUERRERO – On 18 FEB 2011, four men with

their hands and feet tied and heads covered in duct tape were

thrown 600 feet to their deaths from the Salvation Bridge near the

Guerrero state capital Chilpanchingo. Acapulco has seen a surge in

violence since rival factions of the Beltran Leyva Cartel began

fighting over territory after leader Arturo Beltran Leyva died in a battle

with Mexican Marines in DEC 2009.


On 23 FEB 2011, Mexican military forces arrested Julian Zapata Espinoza,

aka ―Piolin‖ or ―Tweety Bird,‖ along with five other members of a local cell of

Los Zetas, three women, and a minor, for the killing of a U.S. Immigration and

Customs Enforcement Agent Jaime Zapata on HWY-57 in the state of San

Luis Potosí. Mexican military claimed they had been following this Zetas

group because of information gathered in December following a separate

arrest of suspected Zetas. The military raid also resulted in the seizure of six

weapons, five vehicles, 41 magazines, communicationsequipment, and various documents, including payroll information

and membership lists of the organization. Espinoza is suspected

of being the a ring leader of the cell of Los Zetas operating out

of southern Nuevo Leon. Reports state that the gunmen mistook

the officer's SUV for a vehicle used by a rival gang. San Luis

Potosi is at the center of a power struggle between two rival drug

gangs, the Zetas and the Gulf cartel. The state of San Luis

Potosí is also on the route northward used by migrants seeking

to reach the United States, and Mexican officials say cartels

have begun recruiting some migrants to work for the gangs.



TIJUANA – According to the FBI, the Sinaloa Cartel likely has gained the upper hand

over the weakened Arellano Felix Organization (AFO) for control of drug trafficking

routes through Tijuana, Mexico. The FBI assesses the Sinaloa Cartel—which is

exploiting factional divides rather than engaging in discriminate violence as it does in

Cd. Juárez, Mexico—gradually will replace the AFO as the dominant drug trafficking

organization in Tijuana. Sinaloa Cartel control could impact the flow of drugs through

the Tijuana-San Diego border area. [FBIHQ – Criminal Intelligence Section]

ACAPULCO – On 22 FEB 2011, Mexican Marines discovered 72 sticks of commercial synthetic

explosives, 14 rifles, eight grenades, more than 4,000 rds of ammunition and a small amount of

marijuana at a camp on the border of the Mexican states of Guerrero and Michoacán. No arrests

were made.

SAN NICOLAS DE LOS GARZA – On 24 FEB 2011, Luis Cortes

Ochoa, the Deputy Secretary of Security for the City of San

Pedro Garza Garcia and prominent of the extinct ―Grupo Rudo‖

of Mauricio Fernandex Garza, was assassinated in the City of

San Nicolas de Los Garza. Cortes Ochoa was attacked while

riding in his pickup in the Colonia Cuauhtemoc. A group of men

riding in a vehicle next to him shot at the pickup causing it to

crash into a tree. Witnesses revealed they saw suspects armed

with machine guns shoot him. EMS was called and when they

arrived Cortes Ochoa was dead.


UPDATES & ASSESSMENT

OPERATION BORDER STAR

EL PA

SO

MARFA

RIO

GR

AN

DE V

ALLEY

DEL RIO

LAREDO

CO

ASTA

L BEN

D


OBS Weekly Assessment

Marijuana seizures decreased from 49,932.89 lbs last week to 33,995.22

lbs this week. In the Del Rio Sector, in the last two months, there has been

an increase in marijuana seizures in the northwest end of Val Verde

County. In the El Paso Sector, quarter panels, tires, and fuel tanks

continued to be the preferred concealment locations in a wide variety of

vehicles. The Rio Grande Valley Sector had two seizures over 2,000 lbs of

marijuana from Mexican freightliners, in which the bundles were co-

mingled with limes. The total estimated street value for reported marijuana

seizures during this reporting period is $29.9 million.

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

70,000

2-A

pr-

09

2-M

ay-0

9

2-J

un

-09

2-J

ul-

09

2-A

ug-

09

2-S

ep-0

9

2-O

ct-0

9

2-N

ov-

09

2-D

ec-0

9

2-J

an-1

0

2-F

eb-1

0

2-M

ar-1

0

2-A

pr-

10

2-M

ay-1

0

2-J

un

-10

2-J

ul-

10

2-A

ug-

10

2-S

ep-1

0

2-O

ct-1

0

2-N

ov-

10

2-D

ec-1

0

2-J

an-1

1

2-F

eb-1

1

Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View

Marijuana (lbs) Long-Term Trendline

39,731.59

53,318.8449,932.89

33,995.22

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Marijuana Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View

Last 4 Weeks 2010 Weekly Average


OBS Weekly Assessment (cont)

Cocaine seizures decreased by half from last week’s total, from 237.08 lbs last week to 101.58 lbs

this week. This is well below the average of 2010. The largest single seizure of 56.34 lbs occurred

in the RGV Sector, which resulted from a traffic stop where 20 bundles of cocaine was discovered

hidden in a false compartment under the driver and passenger seats. The total estimated street

value for reported cocaine seizures totaled $3.4 million.

Heroin and methamphetamine seizures reported for this week’s reporting

period total 7.6 lbs and 0.08 lbs, respectively. CBP Officers at the Hidalgo POE

inspected Mexican taxicab resulting in the seizure of 7.58 pounds of heroin

concealed in four refried bean cans in the passenger’s luggage (USC).

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

1,400

1,600

1,800

2,000

2-A

pr-

09

2-M

ay-0

9

2-J

un

-09

2-J

ul-

09

2-A

ug-

09

2-S

ep-0

9

2-O

ct-0

9

2-N

ov-

09

2-D

ec-0

9

2-J

an-1

0

2-F

eb-1

0

2-M

ar-1

0

2-A

pr-

10

2-M

ay-1

0

2-J

un

-10

2-J

ul-

10

2-A

ug-

10

2-S

ep-1

0

2-O

ct-1

0

2-N

ov-

10

2-D

ec-1

0

2-J

an-1

1

2-F

eb-1

1

Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Long-Term View

Cocaine (lbs) Long-Term Trendline

808.95

358.83

168.61

237.08

101.580

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

28-Jan-11 4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Cocaine Seizures (lbs) Short-Term View




This week the Coastal Bend Sector reported three seizures that originated or were destined for Rio

Grande City, TX. Two of the incidences were seizures of less than 50 lbs of marijuana. The third

incidence in Brooks Co involved $85,254 USD concealed in a false bottom of a five-gallon paint

bucket and inside a box of vinyl tile with the centers cut out. On 14 FEB 2011, ICE Agents

conducted a search warrant at an alleged stash house north of Rio Grande City, TX. Agents seized

$165,730 USD concealed in stuffed animals and a video camera case. Agents also found a .357-

caliber pistol, a Marlin .22 rifle, a Sterling Arms .32 special semi-automatic pistol, numerous rounds

of .223 ammunition, and equipment typically utilized in repackaging marijuana. The subject, an

illegal immigrant and repeat offender, at the house also presented a fake Texas driver’s license.

Seizures that Originated/Destined for Rio Grande City, TX this Week

Currency wrapped and

concealed in five-gallon

paint bucket



Bulk currency seizures more than doubled from $333,966 USD for last week to $736,739 USD

this week. The largest seizure occurred in the RGV Sector. CBP Officers at the B&M Bridge in

Brownsville discovered $381,060 USD concealed in the vehicle’s spare tire of a 1996 Dodge Ram

Pickup.

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

and the criminal networks that support them of approximately $34.6 million.

$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

2-A

pr-

09

2-M

ay-0

9

2-J

un

-09

2-J

ul-

09

2-A

ug-

09

2-S

ep-0

9

2-O

ct-0

9

2-N

ov-

09

2-D

ec-0

9

2-J

an-1

0

2-F

eb-1

0

2-M

ar-1

0

2-A

pr-

10

2-M

ay-1

0

2-J

un

-10

2-J

ul-

10

2-A

ug-

10

2-S

ep-1

0

2-O

ct-1

0

2-N

ov-

10

2-D

ec-1

0

2-J

an-1

1

2-F

eb-1

1

Currency Seizures ($) Long-Term View

Currency Seizures (USD) Long-Term Trendline

361,061.00

9,639.00

333,966.00

736,739.65

0.00

100,000.00

200,000.00

300,000.00

400,000.00

500,000.00

600,000.00

700,000.00

800,000.00

900,000.00

4-Feb-11 11-Feb-11 18-Feb-11 25-Feb-11

Currency Seizures ($) Short-Term View


Illegal alien apprehensions increased again this week. The amount of OTM apprehensions

continued to be high, but a slight decrease from last week. Total IA apprehensions decreased in all

sectors except for Rio Grande Valley and Laredo, where IA apprehensions significantly increased.



On 24 FEB 2011, US law enforcement officers carried out Operation Response and Operation

Bombardier targeting drug trafficking organizations located throughout the US in response to the

murder of ICE Agent Jaime Zapata in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosí. In Texas, preliminary

statistics show that officers seized $953,000 in currency, 15,650 lbs of marijuana, 151 kilos of

cocaine, 11 ounces of methamphetamine, 94 weapons (including two hand grenades), bulletproof

vests, and made 74 arrests. Nationwide, 200 suspected cartel members and associates have been

arrested and $4 million was seized. Currently, there has only been one reported aggressive act

against law enforcement as a result of the operation. When serving a warrant at a residence in

Houston, Texas, Houston Police officer Nainash Patel was shot and wounded twice, with one bullet

going through the elbow and another lodged in his hip. This illustrates the growing danger law

enforcement faces when coming into more and more contact with drug cartels, who are feeling the

pressure from both sides of the border.

Outside the residence of the suspected DTO member where the HPD Officer was shot.


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.

mailto:[email protected]

Documents

134786_110225 BOSA