Smuggling boat found on beach

A smuggling boat was discovered on Arroyo Quemada Beach at 8 a.m. Friday. The boat is north of Refugio in Santa Babara County.

The location is isolated and not visible from Highway 101.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department said there are no suspects in custody at this time.

Investigators with the Department of Homeland Security told NewsChannel 3 at the scene they found evidence of drug packaging materials in and around the boat.

The 35-foot vessel had two engines in the back and it’s believed to have come from Mexico. It was capable of carrying 2500 pounds of marijuana with a street value of $5-million dollars.

Another smuggling vessel was located here two months ago. “We have seen ‘Panga’ boat landings here, the most recent was St. Patrick’s Day March 17th,” said Sheriff’s Information Officer Kelly Hoover.

The investigation is ongoing.

Arroyo Quemada Beach

Smuggling boat found on beach