Investigation busts major drug smuggling operation
Arrested include UPS workers and supervisors
TUCSON, Ariz. (KYMA, KSWT, KECY) - A joint operation between Tucson Police and Homeland Security agents busts a major drug smuggling operation and puts 11 people behind bars.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) says the investigation began back in 2017. That's when Tucson police officers say they uncovered evidence of a link between drug smuggling and United Parcel Service (UPS) workers.
Investigators say UPS employees were not only helping distribute drugs throughout the eastern U.S., but also facilitating the flow of cash back into the Tucson area. Officers say they discovered UPS drivers and supervisors were using sophisticated techniques to bypass internal security systems.
In the end, agents and officers arrested four UPS workers, as well as eight others from locations across Pima County. In addition, investigators seized drugs, equipment used to make drugs, and some 50-thousand counterfeit THC vape pens. They also confiscated cash, a Corvette, a Ford Raptor truck, and a Range Rover.
Those arrested include:
• Fernando Navarro-Figueroa, 32
• Raul Garcia Cordova, 47
• Abraham Felix-Navarro, 27
• Heriberto Martinez-Bojorquez, 24
• Thomas Mendoza, 47
• Victor Molina, 32
• Mario Barcelo, 49
• Michael Castro, (34)
• Jonathan Gallegos, (26)
• Gary Love, (40)
• Martin Siqueiros (31)
The suspects face charges including narcotic smuggling, drug possession, drug possession for sale, money laundering, conspiracy, and weapons misconduct.
