Border Authorities Seize a Ton of Marijuana

Literally. Seven arrested off the coast off Santa Catalina Island

U.S. border authorities seized more than one ton of marijuana and arrested seven people in connection with the high seas interception of two boats earlier this week near Santa Catalina Island, federal authorities said Thursday.

Authorities said the coordinated scheme was part of a new smuggling trend as Mexican criminal groups seek to transfer large marijuana loads onto recreational boats that more easily blend in with boating traffic as they sail into Southern California ports and marinas.