BLAINE, Wash. — Border Patrol assigned to the Blaine Sector seized approximately 78 pounds of cocaine Thursday with an estimated value of more than $1.1 million.

The incident occurred when agents on patrol discovered two black backpacks lying on the ground in a wooded area near the border in Lynden. Upon searching the backpacks, agents found 30 brick-like packages containing a white powdery substance. The substance was later tested and determined to be cocaine.

“Thanks to the vigilance of Blaine Sector Border Patrol agents these dangerous narcotics were prevented from reaching our communities,” said Chief Patrol Agent Rosario “Pete” Vasquez. “Our agents work tirelessly day in and day out to protect this nation, and this seizure highlights that crucial commitment.”

The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 65,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. We facilitate safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.