2 Tons of Pot Seized on Boat, 5 Arrested

KTLA News

July 16, 2008, 11:17 AM PDT

SAN DIEGO -- Federal authorities have made a massive drug bust at the border. Agents seized more than two tons of marijuana from a catamaran that was towed into San Diego's harbor after breaking down in Mexican waters.

A 48-year-old American piloting the 48-foot cruiser was arrested dockside Tuesday after inspectors discovered a cabin compartment stuffed with drug bundles, worth an estimated $2 million, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokeswoman Lauren Mack.

Another U.S. citizen and three Mexican men who were allegedly found waiting for the boat were also arrested. Mack says all five men will face federal drug charges.

Mack says agents believe the pilot, who lived in Mexico, didn't think inspectors would find the drugs when he called for assistance.