United States Border Patrol Chief, Jason Owens, recently announced via social media that a joint effort with the Mexican government led to the arrest of three known human traffickers. The joint law enforcement tactic between countries was created to stem the flow of drugs and weapons.
Owens stated, "A USBP and Government of Mexico binational effort in San Diego, CA led to the arrest of 3 known human traffickers. One of the subjects was armed with the firearm pictured here."
This binational effort is part of a broader strategy unveiled in an April 2023 White House press release. The two countries have adopted a bicentennial framework aimed at combating the flow of guns, ammunition and illicit synthetic drugs across their shared border. A Mexican federal law enforcement group has been assigned to investigate and apprehend individuals involved in the manufacturing and trafficking of fentanyl. Both nations are striving to disrupt the fentanyl supply chain being driven by criminal organizations such as the Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
The joint operation follows a news release from California Attorney General Rob Bonta about Operation Home for the Holidays - an annual initiative run by the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force. This multi-jurisdictional operation aims to arrest potential human traffickers using undercover officers, resulting in two arrests and support services provided to 12 individuals.
Attorney General Bonta commented on this operation saying, "Regardless of the season, every person deserves a safe place to call home," he continued, "Operation Home for the Holidays plays a significant role in our collective endeavors to ensure community safety and combat human trafficking. I deeply appreciate the continuous collaboration and efforts of our partners at the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, who work tirelessly to assist victims, survivors, and their loved ones. Together, we will persevere in taking decisive measures to hold those who violate the law responsible for their actions."
Chad Plantz, special agent in charge for Homeland Security Investigations San Diego, also shared his thoughts on the operation. Plantz said, "Unfortunately, human traffickers typically target minors and other vulnerable or marginalized populations because they are easier to manipulate and control," he added, "However, by working together with our partners such as the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force on targeted operations, we are all better postured to disrupt and dismantle the organizations behind the sex trafficking of minors and connect the victims with the services they need to start on their journey to recovery. I’m confident that the 12 victims rescued, including two minors and the two arrests have impacted not just the families but our community. I thank everyone involved for the success of this yearly targeted operation."
