The Yuma Sector of the United States Border Patrol held its annual Border Safety Event at the Air & Marine Operations hangar in Yuma, Arizona on Friday. This gathering focused on raising awareness of the various life-threatening hazards faced by individuals who attempt illegal entry through the Sonoran Desert, such as exposure to harsh conditions, dehydration, and drowning.
Chief Patrol Agent Justin De La Torre highlighted the impact of the Border Patrol’s Missing Migrant Program Initiative (MMPI), which aims to discourage illegal crossings and reduce accidental deaths in the wilderness. "Since October 1, 2024, Yuma Sector experienced only 19 rescues and one death, compared to 6 deaths and 89 rescues from that timespan of the previous year," De La Torre stated.
The MMPI includes 124 rescue signs placed across the desert between Yuma and Wellton, featuring location coordinates and instructions in both Spanish and English to call 911. There are also 24 rescue beacons where a lost migrant can press a button to send a signal for help.
In his keynote speech, Chief De La Torre addressed the risks of illegal crossing. He noted that migrants often underestimate the environmental hazards and the risks of relying on cartels. “It’s not worth losing your life,” he cautioned, “or being exploited by criminals.”
Following De La Torre’s remarks, representatives from the consulates of Mexico, Guatemala, and Ecuador shared updates on their efforts to support the U.S. Border Patrol’s safety initiative and to discourage illegal border crossings. A question-and-answer session rounded off the event.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), described as the largest law enforcement organization in the United States and the first unified border management agency globally, claims over 65,000 personnel who protect the nation on various fronts. The agency emphasizes its role in facilitating lawful travel and trade, enhancing security, and ensuring economic prosperity through innovation and collaboration.
