SAN DIEGO — Six dozen migrants from Mexico, Central America, South America and Africa were intercepted while attempting to illegally enter the United States off the Southern California coast last weekend, federal officials said.
On Saturday, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations unit based in San Diego interdicted three vessels carrying 36 people near San Clemente Island, according to the agency.
The first interdiction occurred southeast of San Clemente Island when an AMO crew identified what officials described as a “vessel of interest.” The boat carried 10 Mexican nationals, who were transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Haddock and later turned over to U.S. Border Patrol agents for processing.
The same crew later intercepted a second vessel in the area. The 21-foot boat carried nine Mexican nationals and stopped without incident, CBP reported. Those migrants were also transferred to the Haddock and turned over to Border Patrol agents.
A third vessel south of San Clemente Island was interdicted shortly afterward. Authorities said the vessel carried 17 Mexican nationals, who were transferred to customs agents for processing.
Officials said some of those apprehended had criminal histories that included suspected re-entry after deportation, driving under the influence, firearm possession, domestic violence, grand theft and resisting arrest.
An AMO aircrew provided aerial support during the three interdictions.
“Whether on land, in the air or on the sea, CBP is coming after those who choose to break our laws and try to enter our country illegally, especially dangerous criminals who threaten our communities,” CBP AMO Executive Director Hunter Robinson said in a statement. “These interdictions exemplify how CBP works alongside our law enforcement and national defense partners in a whole-of-government approach to protecting America’s borders.”
Additional interdictions were reported over the weekend.
On Saturday, the Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour and the USS Augusta coordinated to stop another vessel, apprehending 16 people who were later turned over to Border Patrol agents.
On Sunday, the Rednour intercepted a vessel about 8.5 miles west of Sunset Cliffs. Its crew transferred 20 people to Border Patrol agents for processing.
“Ensuring our country is safe doesn’t stop with apprehending those who attempt to enter illegally,” CBP San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Justin De La Torre said. “Working alongside our CBP and DHS partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we will identify, investigate, and hold accountable every individual involved in these criminal smuggling operations, including those piloting the vessels, the coordinators, facilitators, and the foreign terrorist organizations directing them.”
Authorities said all suspected migrants will be processed for removal or potential federal prosecution.
