Massive waves probably caused a marijuana-smuggling boat to split in two near Point Mugu, investigators said Friday.
What began as a potential rescue quickly became a crime investigation Thursday after the boat carrying 250 pounds of marijuana was found broken apart on rocks south of Point Mugu State Park.
By the time authorities arrived, the smugglers had fled.
Officials said rescuers first came upon debris, such as floating gasoline containers and marijuana packaged neatly in burlap bags. Farther south, washed up among rocks, was what remained of a splintered 20-foot fishing boat. Large waves have pounded the Southern California coastline in recent days.
"We did not find injured people along the beach or in the water," said Bill Nash, a spokesman for the Ventura County Fire Department. "We turned the matter over to law enforcement."
Documents inside or near the boat were in Spanish, suggesting the smugglers may have sailed from Mexico, said Capt. Mike Aranda of the Ventura County Sheriff's Department.
Investigators said there's been an increase in smuggling in recent months by traffickers attempting landfall in remote areas along the shoreline in Ventura County and adjoining counties.
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-- Richard Winton
Photo: Officials investigate a drug-smuggling boat washed ashore near Point Mugu. Credit: KTLA
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