This archive report was first published on 9 July 2019.
On Sunday, a dramatic chase unfolded in Puerto Rico as border patrol agents pursued a vessel carrying a substantial cargo. The pursuit led to the discovery of five duffel bags containing $3.7 million in cash.
According to a press release, the US Customs and Border Protection agents, in collaboration with the DEA, tracked the boat as it traveled from Puerto Rico to the US Virgin Islands without lights. The vessel made a sudden turn back towards Fajardo, on the east coast of Puerto Rico, and landed near the Rio Fajardo.
Occupants of the vessel were seen unloading the bags before fleeing the scene as agents closed in. A loaded pistol and 63 rounds of ammunition were also recovered from the boat.
Johnny Morales, director of air and marine operations for the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch, stated, 'We remain committed to working with other federal and local law enforcement partners to detect and deter smuggling attempts throughout the Caribbean.'
The press release noted that CBP seized the currency under failure to declare and bulk cash smuggling laws.
Published on July 9, 2019, at 10:29 PM.
