U.S. Border Patrol agents from the El Centro Sector have apprehended two United States citizens on charges of attempting to smuggle unaccompanied minors into the country. The incident unfolded on Tuesday at the Highway 86 immigration checkpoint near Westmorland, California. The suspects were traveling in a silver SUV that aroused suspicions when it reached the checkpoint.
The driver and a female passenger were questioned regarding their travels. Initially, the driver claimed they were traveling from Arizona to California but later admitted they had entered the U.S. from Mexico at the San Luis Port of Entry. Discrepancies in the driver's account prompted agents to refer the vehicle for secondary inspection.
During this inspection, agents discovered inconsistencies in the identification provided for two girls in the rear seats. It was determined that the children's photos and names did not correspond with the documents on hand. Further questioning revealed that the children were not related to either adult in the vehicle and the driver had no connection to their mother. The children, aged 10 and 12, were identified as unaccompanied minors from Mexico.
Chief Patrol Agent Gregory K. Bovino of the El Centro Sector commented on the situation, stating, "And this, folks, is how the trafficking of children starts. It’s almost unbearable to think about what heinous crimes await children who aren’t with their parents. The border environment has been rife with this type of activity over the past several years, however, the focus has now shifted, and heavy sentences await smugglers who hurt kids."
The two adults have been charged with 8 USC 1324 Alien Smuggling, and their vehicle has been confiscated as evidence.
For further updates and information, individuals are encouraged to visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website or follow the El Centro Sector's social media accounts.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection continues its role as the nation's largest law enforcement organization. The agency's personnel are committed to protecting the United States and ensuring safe and lawful trade and travel.
