DRUG SEIZURES DECLINE AT STATE BORDER CROSSINGS

The amount of drugs seized at five California border crossings fell for the
first time in four years, reflecting a post-Sept. 11 security crackdown and
stepped-up enforcement in Colombia and Mexico, authorities said Friday.

U.S. Customs Service inspectors seized 158 tons of heroin, cocaine,
marijuana and methamphetamine over the last 12 months. A year ago, the
total was more than 244 tons.

Authorities were reluctant to pat themselves on the back, noting that
seizures had risen in Texas and New Mexico, which suggests smugglers may be
looking eastward.