LYNDEN, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Border Patrol agents seized over $1 million worth of cocaine near the border in Lynden last Thursday, Dec. 19.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection says the drugs were discovered when agents found two black backpacks lying on the ground in a wooded area near the border. The agents opened the backpacks to find 30 brick-like packages containing a white powdery substance that was later determined to be cocaine.

In total, the packages add up to roughly 78 pounds of cocaine – an estimated value of more than $1.1 million.

“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 drugs were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.