25 assault rifles seized after being smuggled into California from Arizona

Coachella Valley investigators seized 25 assault rifles and two handguns allegedly brought into California from Arizona by a man who was accompanied by his 17-year-old brother, the County Sheriff's Department announced Thursday. Riverside.

U.S. Border Patrol agents on the California-Arizona border encountered the brothers driving a Honda CRV, which was carrying more than two dozen firearms allegedly recovered in Phoenix, Arizona, according to sheriff's officials. The cache of guns and magazines was hidden in the rear of the vehicle, officials said.

Jose Palma Almendarez, a 25-year-old Calexico man, was arrested on suspicion of several weapons-related charges and booked into Blythe Jail after investigators from the Coachella Valley Gang Unit visited on site.

The police handed over his 17-year-old brother to his parents.

Anyone with information is asked to call Investigator Henson, a member of the Gang Task Force, at 760-836-1600.

Any non-emergency information and tips regarding gang activity can be submitted via the Gang Task Force Tip Form or by calling 951-922-7601. Anonymous tips can be provided by calling Coachella Valley Crimestoppers at 760-341-7867.