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 / Modified dec 2, 2024 4:20 p.m.

Arizona man indicted for ammo smuggling into Mexico, assault on a federal officer

A federal grand jury in Tucson indicted a U.S. citizen from Rio Rico who attempted to smuggle more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition into Mexico through the Nogales port of entry and was shot after he attempted to flee.
by Danyelle Khmara

Ammo smuggling Officials discovered rounds of ammunition hidden in a spare tire during a recent smuggling attempt.
United States District Court

Miguel Soto-Morando of Rio Rico attempted to flee into Mexico through the DeConcini Port of Entry in Nogales after being stopped for inspection.

Court records say when an officer tried to stop him by reaching into the vehicle, he accelerated and caused the officer to be thrown. Soto-Morando crashed into a pillar and the officer along with another both shot at him, hitting him in the arm and leg.

Officials discovered the rounds of ammunition he was attempting to smuggle hidden in a spare tire. If convicted, the three charges against Soto-Morando each carry maximum penalties of 10 years or more. He was charged with smuggling goods from the U.S., assault on a federal officer and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, due to a previous conviction.

Arizona ports of entry are a hotspot of ammunition smuggling into Mexico. The country is suing five Arizona gun dealers, alleging they knowingly participate in firearms trafficking.

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