John R. Morris, Border Patrol Chief for Tucson, Arizona, announced that Border Patrol agents in Arizona discovered two abandoned backpacks containing over 53 pounds of methamphetamine during routine patrols near Tubac and Ruby.
“This crystal meth is no gem, but we are glad we found it,” said Morris. “Border Patrol Agents found two backpacks filled with meth last weekend. The first abandoned backpack was found on Friday west of Interstate 19 near Tubac, AZ. The second bag was found near the ghost town on Ruby, when agents tracking a group of suspected illegal aliens found a discarded camouflage backpack in a brushy area.”
According to a statement shared through an X post by the Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent, the discovery involved two backpacks with crystal methamphetamine found in remote locations in Arizona. Agents located the first backpack near Tubac during foot patrols and the second near Ruby while following a group. Despite thorough searches, no individuals were apprehended in connection with these seizures.
Arizona’s Tucson Sector plays a crucial role in methamphetamine interdictions along the U.S.-Mexico border. In 2025, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported significant methamphetamine seizures in this region, with the Tucson field office managing substantial volumes at ports and between entry points. These operations target smuggling routes to limit drug distribution within the state.
Across the United States, CBP seized 170,119 pounds of methamphetamine by mid-December 2025, primarily at official ports of entry. The Border Patrol supplemented this effort with additional seizures between ports, reporting 12,833 pounds in early 2026 data. These figures underscore extensive efforts to address national drug trafficking issues.
Morris serves as Chief Patrol Agent for the U.S. Border Patrol’s Tucson Sector in Arizona. He oversees approximately 3,700 agents across nine stations covering 262 miles of border. His responsibilities include directing security measures against illegal crossings and smuggling activities.
