In John Long's recount (who was a dirtbag) the beginning was even more interesting... apparently someone's girlfriend worked a switchboard and overhead a call a

In John Long's recount (who was a dirtbag) the beginning was even more interesting... apparently someone's girlfriend worked a switchboard and overhead a call about it, mentioned this, and someone else knew the plane type mentioned was a frequent smuggler plane, kicking off the search. Can't remember which book he writes about it in, but it's a great story!