Border Patrol agents from the Yuma Sector, in partnership with Air and Marine Operations, arrested a cartel scout in the Sierra Pinta Mountains. The arrest follows an investigation by the Yuma Sector Targeting and Intelligence Division into cartel activities that facilitate the movement of unauthorized migrants through the Wellton Station area.
Agents reported that cartel scouts use elevated locations to observe law enforcement movements. During their search, officers found food supplies, equipment for extended stays, and a solar panel at the site, suggesting preparations for a long-term scouting operation.
The individual apprehended was taken to Wellton Station for processing and record checks. Authorities plan to refer the case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Arizona for prosecution and eventual removal proceedings. According to officials, sentencing enhancements may be sought due to involvement in scouting operations supporting transnational criminal organizations. The person arrested had previously been expelled twice under Title 42 regulations.
The Yuma Border Patrol Sector Prosecutions Unit collaborates with federal prosecutors to apply all possible charges related to smuggling and harboring unauthorized individuals within the United States. In this case, charges include illegal entry under 8 U.S.C.1325, with potential additional penalties linked to scouting activities.
Acting Chief Patrol Agent Dustin Caudle stated: “The arrest of this dangerous smuggler is a perfect example of a unified border enforcement team working together to achieve a successful law enforcement outcome. These ruthless transnational criminal organizations have no regard for human life, and the dismantling of these cartel networks ensures a secure border that increases the safety of agents and our communities.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) describes itself as America’s largest law enforcement organization, responsible for securing borders on land, air, and sea while enforcing safe travel and trade policies.
