Authorities in Cochise County, Arizona, have revealed details about a significant ammunition bust involving tens of thousands of rounds. The operation, which took place in mid-January, was part of a coordinated multi-agency effort targeting illegal activities along Interstate 10.
According to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office, officials intercepted two vehicles traveling east from the Phoenix area. In the first vehicle, law enforcement seized 10,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition. The second vehicle contained 19,640 rounds of 7.62×39 ammunition and was later located at a Motel 6 in Benson by Cochise Narcotics and Tactical Assistance investigators.
The individuals involved in the operation were identified as three asylum seekers, including one from Cuba, and an American citizen from Texas.
In a statement released on social media, the Sheriff’s Office described how the bust unfolded. The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office interdicted the vehicle carrying the 7.62×39 ammunition, while the .50 caliber ammunition was recovered during a subsequent search in Benson.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives leading the effort. Authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the suspects or the intended destination of the ammunition.
This major bust highlights the collaborative efforts of local and federal agencies in combating the illegal transportation of firearms and ammunition.
