Agents from the U.S. Border Patrol's San Diego Sector recently discovered and seized an abandoned semi-automatic rifle near the border. The event took place last week when remote surveillance equipment spotted several individuals illegally entering the United States in a remote area of Otay Mountain. One person was seen carrying what appeared to be a rifle but later returned to Mexico, leaving the weapon behind.
On January 13, Border Patrol agents searched the area and found the rifle around 4:15 p.m., along with an empty 30-round magazine. No individuals were present at the time of discovery. The items were taken to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing and subsequently handed over to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for further investigation.
During Fiscal Year 2024, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents encountered and seized 28 weapons during their duties, compared to 53 weapons in Fiscal Year 2023.
The San Diego Sector is actively addressing threats posed by weapons through domestic and bi-national operations targeting dangerous activities along shared borders. In March 2024, a Border Patrol Tactical Unit marksman fatally injured an armed suspect attempting to assault illegal aliens in Otay Mountains.
The Otay Mountain area has been historically hazardous for both illegal aliens and agents due to bandit activity. Several incidents involving aggression toward illegal aliens and San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents occurred in 2024.
San Diego Sector remains committed to its border security mission by conducting targeted patrols in high-risk areas, utilizing surveillance technology, and collaborating with federal and international law enforcement partners. These efforts aim to deter criminal organizations and protect communities on both sides of the border.
“This seizure underscores the dangers our Border Patrol agents face along the border,” said San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel. “Every weapon seized is one more taken from the hands of criminals and is a reminder of the critical role we play in protecting our community from the threats posed by these violent actors.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) serves as America's frontline: it is the nation's largest law enforcement organization and acts as the world's first unified border management agency. With over 65,000 personnel, CBP protects America on land, air, and sea while facilitating safe travel and trade to ensure economic prosperity through innovation, intelligence collaboration, and trust.
