AGUADILLA, Puerto Rico - Agentes de Operaciones Aéreas y Marinas (AMO) de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza (CBP) Estados Unidos detectaron e interceptaron el miércoles una embarcación improvisada de madera con 32 indocumentados de nacionalidad dominicana que intentaban llegar a la costa noroeste.

"Seguimos comprometidos a trabajar con otros socios federales y locales encargados de hacer cumplir la ley para detectar y disuadir los intentos de contrabando en todo el Caribe", declaró Johnny Morales, Director de Operaciones Aéreas y Marinas de CBP en el Caribe.

El 20 de noviembre, la tripulación de un avión de patrulla marítima DHC-8 observó una embarcación tipo "yola" monomotor de 30 pies navegando hacia el este a unas 26 millas de la ciudad de Aguadilla.

La tripulación mantuvo una vigilancia constante de la embarcación, contactando a la tripulación de un bote interceptor marino de CBP que interceptó la yola, encontrando 32 personas a bordo, 30 hombres y dos mujeres, todos reclamando ser dominicanos.

Siguiendo los protocolos del Grupo de Interagencial de la Frontera Caribeña (CBIG), los 32 extranjeros abordaron el escampavía de la Guardia Costera de los Estados Unidos, Donald Horsley,  para un procesamiento biométrico.

El 21 de noviembre, la Guardia Costera transportó a 4 extranjeros al puerto de entrada de Mayagüez, donde los agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza de la Estación Ramey los arrestaron para encausamiento por violaciones a la ley federal de inmigración.

Las escampavías Donald Horsley de la Guardia Costera de los Estados Unidos repatrió al restante de los 28 indocumentados a la Republica Dominicana. 

AMO es una organización federal, adscrita a Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza (CBP), de ley y orden, dedicada a servir y proteger al pueblo estadounidense utilizando recursos aeronáuticos y marítimos avanzados. Con aproximadamente 1.800 agentes federales y personal de apoyo, 240 aviones y 300 embarcaciones marítimas que operan en los Estados Unidos, Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes estadounidenses.  AMO lleva a cabo su misión en el aire y el mar, dentro y fuera de la frontera y el interior del país.

En julio de 2006, CBIG se creó formalmente unificando los esfuerzos del Negociado de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza (CBP), el Servicio de Guardacostas (USCG), el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE), la Oficina Fiscal Federal para el Distrito de Puerto Rico, y las unidades de FURA de la Policía de Puerto Rico, con la meta común de mantener control y seguridad de las zonas costeras de la isla. 

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A man was arrested Wednesday after he landed his airplane in the U.S. without authorization and fled from personnel with U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations

The incident occurred when agents from the Bellingham Air and Marine Branch detected the airplane enter the U.S. and land at the Methow Valley Airport in Winthrop. When agents approached the pilot to question him, he jumped into his airplane and flew away.

Agents pursued the airplane in helicopters and observed the pilot throw several bags out of the airplane into the wilderness.

As the airplane approached Canada, CBP received permission to continue the pursuit across the border. The CBP helicopters followed the airplane to the Langley, British Columbia, Airport, where the airplane landed. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police's Federal Border Enforcement Team, with assistance from the Lower Mainland District Emergency Response Team (LMD ERT), RCMP Air Services and the Langley RCMP, arrested the man and seized the airplane. CBP’s helicopters remained in an over watch position during the arrest.

“Due to the exceptional skills of our pilots and air interdiction agents, we were able to ensure that this man did not escape arrest,” said Jeremy Thompson, Director, Bellingham Air and Marine Branch. “Additionally, our partnerships and coordination with Canadian law enforcement agencies played a crucial role in the arrest of this man.”

In Fiscal Year 2019, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the seizure or disruption of 284,825 pounds of cocaine, 101,874 pounds of marijuana, 51,058 pounds of methamphetamine, 935 weapons and $34.1 million, 1,575 arrests, 52,036 apprehensions of illegal aliens.                           

AMO has a critical role in CBP’s national security mission, which at times requires AMO personnel to interact with members of the general aviation community. AMO is committed to working with the general aviation community to exercise this responsibility while safeguarding the civil liberties of the flying public. While the great majority of pilots are law abiding, some are not. There are criminals who seek to exploit the freedom and convenience of operating general aviation aircraft to conduct illegal activities, such as transportation of narcotics, aliens, or other illicit cargo, often in furtherance of international smuggling schemes.

If a general aviation pilot has crossed an international border or the legal prerequisites for border search authority are otherwise present, AMO agents may search the aircraft pursuant to long-established federal law consistent with the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Further questions regarding the incident should be directed to the BC RCMP.

SAN DIEGO—Working with U.S. Department of Homeland Security partners, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents arrested 14 people this morning who entered the U.S. illegally by boat.

The event began Tuesday at approximately 12 a.m., when the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) spotted a vessel operating without any running lights near the international marine boundary line. The USCG requested assistance from CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO) due to the suspicious vessel continuing north off the coast of San Diego.  

The camouflage painted pleasure craft was intercepted by AMO agents eight miles west of Mission Bay, Calif.  Agents interviewed all 14 passengers onboard and determined they were Mexican nationals illegally present in the U.S.  Those arrested included 12 adult males and two adult females.  Agents transported all 14 to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing.  Two men in the group were charged with alien smuggling and their boat was seized by AMO.

Since October 1, 2019, AMO agents across the country have been involved in the apprehension of 4,153 individuals through CBP and DHS components.

When CBP officers, USBP agents, and AMO personnel secure our Nation’s borders, they are protecting every city, county, and community throughout the U.S.

If you have information about maritime smuggling or suspicious activity along the coast of California, call 9-1-1, and you will be directed through the proper channels.

SAN DIEGO— U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) working in coordination with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) partners arrested 34 people this weekend who had entered the U.S. illegally by sea.

The first incident occurred on Sunday, December 1, at approximately 11:15 a.m., when a DHS aircraft observed a suspicious boat enter the U.S. 

The USCG notified U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) to intercept the vessel.  At around 12:15 p.m. AMO agents intercepted the boat approximately one-mile southeast of Point Loma, Calif.

A total of 21 people between the ages of 19 and 59 were found on the boat and transferred into USBP custody.  Four were identified as suspected smugglers, two of which were U.S citizens—a 39-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman—and two were Mexican nationals, a 41-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman.  The remaining seventeen people on board—five women and 12 men—were Mexican nationals who admitted to being illegally present in the U.S.  The boat was seized by AMO. 

The second event occurred on December 2 at approximately 12:03 a.m., when AMO’s Multi-Role Enforcement Aircraft detected a panga approximately 13 miles west of San Clemente, Calif., near Trestles Beach.

AMO notified USCG officers patrolling the area, who responded with a Coast Guard Cutter and a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) to intercept the vessel.  At around 12:52 a.m., the RHIB pursued the panga, which failed to yield, and moments later the panga beached itself near the T-Street Beach, just south of the San Clemente Pier.

Once on shore, 14 people disembarked from the panga and ran to avoid agents.  USBP agents pursued and apprehended 13 people.  Of those apprehended, nine were adult Mexican national men, two were juvenile male Mexican nationals, and two were adult Chinese national men.  All were determined to be in the country illegally.

The panga was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.

“The collaboration and effectiveness of our maritime partnerships is well illustrated by these two smuggling incidents,” said San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Douglas Harrison.  “Additionally, with inclement weather conditions and approaching storms, smuggling in the maritime domain will increase the dangers at sea and on the shoreline.  Chief Harrison added, “As I have said before, it is not worth putting your life into the hands of exploitive and indifferent smugglers.”

The 34 people arrested during these two maritime events are currently in DHS custody.

PRESIDIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol Agents arrested a group of 12 individuals early Sunday afternoon near Presidio, Texas. During processing, the agents discovered one of the individuals, Jose Jose Baltazar, a citizen of Guatemala, had previously been convicted of rape in Indiana.

“The apprehensions made by our agents in the desert of West Texas have a direct impact on the safety of the communities in which we live and work.” Big Bend Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak said. “They also have a direct impact on the communities in the interior of the United States, this individual previously pleaded guilty to rape and he will not be going back to that community.”

On Saturday, November 30, at approximately 9:00 p.m. agents assigned to the Presidio Station discovered footprints of several individuals near the Rio Grande River. The footprints appeared to have been left by a group of individuals that had illegally entered the United States and continued north.

On Sunday, at approximately 1:45 p.m., Presidio Agents with the assistance of the CBP Alpine Air Unit using helicopter AS350 encountered 12 individuals hiding in caves. The individuals were dressed in camouflage and had carpet on the soles of their shoes. The carpet attached to the shoes is used to help hide footprints while traveling through the desert.

Agents determined the individuals were citizens and nationals of Guatemala and Mexico illegally present in the United States. They were processed according to the applicable immigration laws.

During processing, records checks revealed Jose Jose Baltazar was arrested in 2015 by the Seymour Police Department in Indiana. Baltazar was convicted of rape, a class three felony, in Jackson County Indiana and he was sentenced to 5 years in prison. He was then removed on January 23, 2019, to Guatemala.

Baltazar’s previous Order of Removal will be reinstated and removed to Guatemala at the conclusion of his immigration court hearing and sentencing.

Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents patrol 517 miles of the Southwest border that extends from Sierra Blanca, Texas to Sanderson, Texas. The Presidio Station area consists of the southern half of Presidio County, the third largest county in the state of Texas. The station is responsible for 113.8 border miles between the U.S. and Mexico and 1,100 square miles of area of responsibility.

The U.S. Border Patrol is made up of over 19,000 brave men and women who courageously secure our nation’s borders. El Paso CBP AMO Air Branch has the largest AOR in the Southwest Region, All of New Mexico, all of Oklahoma and West Texas, including all of Big Bend Sector. Help us secure our homeland, find out more at cbp.gov/careers.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.— A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO)P-3 Orion Long Range Tracker crew assigned to the National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville, intercepted two vessels loaded with cocaine in two separate incidents, Nov. 21 and 22. 

On Nov. 21, the P-3 Orion crew assumed the tracking of a go-fast vessel in the Eastern Pacific.  The crew contacted Panamanian law enforcement, who launched two interceptor vessels to stop the go-fast.  AMO vectored the interceptors to the go-fast’s location, resulting in the arrest of three persons on board and the seizure of 2,511 lbs of cocaine worth an estimated $33 million.

On Nov. 22, the same P-3 Orion crew was on routine patrol in the Western Caribbean when it spotted another suspect go-fast vessel.  After contacting authorities, Panamanian interceptors launched and a helicopter went airborne towards the location of the go-fast.  Although the go-fast was beached along the shoreline and the occupants dispersed, 70 packages of contraband were found containing 3,747 lbs of cocaine worth $49 million. 

Authorities in both events seized the contraband, confirmed as cocaine, weighing a total of 6,258 lbs and valued at over $81.5 million.

The National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville forms half of the P-3 operations wing, along with its partner center in Corpus Christi, Texas. These P-3 aircraft operate throughout North and South America in defense of the borders of the United States and to prevent attempts to smuggle persons or contraband. The center is an active partner with FEMA, the U.S. Department of Energy and NORAD in times of national crisis such as Hurricane Harvey or post 9/11.

AMO is a federal law enforcement organization dedicated to serving and protecting the American people through advanced aeronautical and maritime capabilities. AMO interdicts unlawful people and cargo approaching U.S. borders, investigates criminal networks and provides domain awareness in the air and maritime environments, and responds to contingencies and national taskings. With approximately 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, AMO serves as the nation’s experts in airborne and maritime law enforcement.

In Fiscal Year 2018, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the approximate seizure or disruption of 283,503 pounds of cocaine; 301,553 pounds of marijuana; 180,444 pounds of methamphetamine; 872 weapons and $34.2 million. AMO enforcement actions also facilitated 2,373 arrests and 47,744 apprehensions of illegal aliens.

For more information about CBP, visit: CBP.gov, Flickr, DVIDS, or follow us on Twitter at @CBP and @CBP Florida.

VAN HORN, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol Agents seized approximately 700 pounds of marijuana in less than 24 hours with the assistance of air support and night vision technology.

“Day or night, on foot or in the sky we will combat transnational criminal organizations with all available assets.” Big Bend Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak said, “These seizures reflect the unity of effort among law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe.”

On Sunday night Van Horn Agents responded to a group of individuals detected with night vision technology that appeared to have made illegal entry into the United States. When agents arrived at the individuals’ last known location, they discovered multiple sets of footprints traveling northbound. Agents tracked the footprints throughout the night.

On Monday, at approximately 4:00 a.m., agents with a service canine approached several individuals, believed to be the same spotted and tracked the previous night. The individuals absconded from the agents leaving behind seven make-shift rectangular burlap backpacks. The contents of the backpacks tested positive for marijuana and had a combined weight of over 400 pounds. 

At approximately 10:00 a.m., CBP Alpine Air Unit, utilizing an AS350 aircraft, observed five individuals with large rectangular backpacks in a desolate area south of Van Horn, Texas. A Texas Department of Public Safety Air Unit responded to the area and assisted in keeping the individuals from absconding. A short while later agents and a dog from Van Horn and Sierra Blanca Stations arrived at the location to effect an arrest. The agents were able to successfully arrest four out of the five subjects and seized five backpacks later determined to contain marijuana with a combined weight of approximately 300 pounds. Agents determined the individuals were citizens and nationals of Mexico illegally present in the United States.

Van Horn Agents are continuing to search for all absconded subjects. The subjects in custody and the narcotics seized were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. 

Big Bend Sector Border Patrol agents patrol 517 miles of the southwest border, an area that extends from Sierra Blanca, Texas, to Sanderson, Texas. The Van Horn Station area of responsibility consists of 31.1 miles of border with Mexico, and approximately 4,965 square miles of terrain.

The U.S. Border Patrol is made up of over 19,000 brave men and women who courageously secure our nation’s borders. El Paso CBP AMO Air Branch has the largest AOR in the Southwest Region - all of New Mexico, all of Oklahoma, and West Texas, including all of Big Bend Sector. Help us secure our homeland, find out more at cbp.gov/careers.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Two P-3 aircrews from Air and Marine Operations found a low-profile vessel (LPV) off the coast of South America and followed it until the U.S. Coast Guard arrived and seized the cocaine discovered aboard the craft valued at over $51,000,000.

A Corpus Christi-based aircrew had just departed its deployment base in South America for a patrol when the radar operator detected a tiny target on the water. When the sensor operator zoomed in with the P-3’s sophisticated camera system, they saw an LPV; a stealthy boat that the drug cartels use for the sole purpose of smuggling drugs. The aircrew continued to track the vessel for several hours until an aircraft from AMO’s other P-3 base in Jacksonville, Florida, arrived to continue the chase.

The two aircraft took turns watching the smugglers until the US Coast Guard reached the vessel on Nov. 17. The AMO crews were happy to find out that their efforts led to the Coast Guard’s detaining four smugglers and seizing 3,900 pounds of cocaine.

“Drug smugglers hiding in the deep water of the Pacific are no match for our aircrews,” said Corpus Director of Air and Marine Operations Bob Blanchard. “This operation proves that we won’t rest until those who mean us harm are arrested.”

The National Air Security Operations Center—Corpus Christi is a division of Air and Marine Operations and operates the Lockheed P-3 Orion conducting counterdrug patrol missions over the Eastern Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. In fiscal year 2019, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the seizure or disruption of 284,825 pounds of cocaine.

The mission of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations is to safeguard our Nation by anticipating and confronting security threats through our aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise, innovative capabilities, and partnerships at the border and beyond. With 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, Air and Marine Operations uses its sophisticated fleets to detect, sort, intercept, track and apprehend criminals in diverse environments at and beyond U.S. borders.

SAN DIEGO—Working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations (AMO), Joint Harbor Operations Center (JHOC), and U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents arrested nine people after they entered the U.S. illegally by boat on Thursday.

On December 19, 2019, at around 3:45 p.m., JHOC contacted AMO about a suspicious vessel off the coast of San Diego, Calif.  AMO quickly reached the area and intercepted a 24-foot Bayliner pleasure craft.

Suspecting that the vessel was being used for smuggling, AMO agents took control of the vessel and navigated it to a dock at Ballast Point.  USBP agents were contacted and responded to the dock.

Border Patrol agents questioned the nine passengers and determined they were Mexican nationals illegally present in the U.S.

Of those arrested, eight were adult men ranging from 20 to 62 in age and one 35-year-old woman.  One of the men, was identified as the Bayliner’s captain.  The group was transported to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing.  The captain faces alien smuggling charges.  The boat was seized by AMO.

Since October 1, 2019, AMO agents across the country have been involved in the apprehension of 4,153 individuals through CBP and DHS components.

If you have information about maritime smuggling or suspicious activity along the coast of California, please call 9-1-1, and you will be directed through the proper channels.

EDINBURG, Texas – The holidays got a little bit brighter for the children in the Rio Grande Valley as Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Border Community Liaison (BCL) Unit coordinated with many local schools and nonprofit organizations to deliver over 1500 hundred toys to children.

RGV Sector partnered with the Salvation Army to sponsor an “Angel Tree” filled with names of children in Hidalgo County who may not otherwise receive gifts due to their family’s financial situation. Over 50 children received items such as coats, scooters, bicycles, dolls to name a few.

The Kingsville BCL Unit participated in the 18th Annual Driscoll Children’s Hospital Toy Drive where they helped Santa distribute the gifts to the children. This year, all the children had to do was look outside their hospital window to see Santa making a special arrival in the Air and Marine Operation’s helicopter.

The McAllen and Weslaco Border Patrol Stations collaborated with the English Second Language Club from the Hidalgo Early College High School and Air and Marine Operations to deliver gifts to students at Hidalgo Park Elementary. “Green Santa” made his appearance and children happily posed with him for pictures.

The Falfurrias BCL Unit partnered with Child Protective Services to provide Christmas Toys for 55 children in Brooks County, currently in the CPS system. CPS caseworkers took the children to the Falfurrias Station where they met Green Santa and enjoyed cookies and refreshments.

The Weslaco Border Patrol Station held its annual tradition of donating gifts to children in Head Start Programs. The station handed out 140 gifts to the North Bridge Head Start Program in Weslaco and 140 gifts to the Donna One Head Start Program.

The Brownsville BCL Unit celebrated the holidays with 24 students from Los Fresnos United. Students played games, had pizza dinner, and received 48 gifts donated by the Brownsville Station.

Other Station BCL units participated in special events of giving back to the community such as parades and toy drives.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV and @USBPChiefRGV

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO)P-3 Orion Long Range Tracker crew assigned to the National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville, intercepted a large low-profile go-fast vessel in the Eastern Pacific loaded with cocaine. 

The P-3 Orion crew located and tracked the vessel over the course of two days.  On Dec. 17, the crew vectored U.S. Coast Guard to its location for a cooperative interdiction, resulting in the arrest of three Columbian nationals and the seizure of 3,670 lbs of cocaine worth an estimated $48 million.

The National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville forms half of the P-3 operations wing, along with its partner center in Corpus Christi, Texas. These P-3 aircraft operate throughout North and South America in defense of the borders of the United States and to prevent attempts to smuggle persons or contraband. The center is an active partner with FEMA, the U.S. Department of Energy and NORAD in times of national crisis such as Hurricane Harvey or post 9/11.

AMO is a federal law enforcement organization dedicated to serving and protecting the American people through advanced aeronautical and maritime capabilities. AMO interdicts unlawful people and cargo approaching U.S. borders, investigates criminal networks and provides domain awareness in the air and maritime environments, and responds to contingencies and national taskings. With approximately 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, AMO serves as the nation’s experts in airborne and maritime law enforcement.

In Fiscal Year 2018, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the approximate seizure or disruption of 283,503 pounds of cocaine; 301,553 pounds of marijuana; 180,444 pounds of methamphetamine; 872 weapons and $34.2 million. AMO enforcement actions also facilitated 2,373 arrests and 47,744 apprehensions of illegal aliens.

For more information about CBP, visit: CBP.gov, Flickr, DVIDS, or follow us on Twitter at @CBP, @CBPAMO, and @CBP Florida.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO)P-3 Orion Long Range Tracker crew assigned to the National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville, intercepted a large low-profile go-fast vessel in the Eastern Pacific loaded with cocaine. 

The P-3 Orion crew located and tracked the vessel over the course of two days.  On Dec. 17, the crew vectored U.S. Coast Guard to its location for a cooperative interdiction, resulting in the arrest of three Colombian nationals and the seizure of 3,670 lbs of cocaine worth an estimated $48 million.

The National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville forms half of the P-3 operations wing, along with its partner center in Corpus Christi, Texas. These P-3 aircraft operate throughout North and South America in defense of the borders of the United States and to prevent attempts to smuggle persons or contraband. The center is an active partner with FEMA, the U.S. Department of Energy and NORAD in times of national crisis such as Hurricane Harvey or post 9/11.

AMO is a federal law enforcement organization dedicated to serving and protecting the American people through advanced aeronautical and maritime capabilities. AMO interdicts unlawful people and cargo approaching U.S. borders, investigates criminal networks and provides domain awareness in the air and maritime environments, and responds to contingencies and national taskings. With approximately 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, AMO serves as the nation’s experts in airborne and maritime law enforcement.

In Fiscal Year 2018, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the approximate seizure or disruption of 283,503 pounds of cocaine; 301,553 pounds of marijuana; 180,444 pounds of methamphetamine; 872 weapons and $34.2 million. AMO enforcement actions also facilitated 2,373 arrests and 47,744 apprehensions of illegal aliens.

For more information about CBP, visit: CBP.gov, Flickr, DVIDS, or follow us on Twitter at @CBP and @CBP Florida.

EDINBURG, Texas – Los intentos de los traficantes de drogas de explotar la falta de infraestructura fronteriza conducen a la incautación de 1200 libras de marihuana en cuatro incidentes separados.

El domingo, agentes de McAllen que trabajaban cerca de La Habana, Texas, observaron que múltiples traficantes de drogas entran en los Estados Unidos. Poco después, los agentes observaron que un GMC Sports-Vehículo de Utilidad (SUV) viajaba hacia el sur hacia el Río Grande y hacen contacto con los contrabandistas. Momentos más tarde, el vehículo intentó conducir hacia el norte, pero se dio la vuelta después de observar a los agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza. Los agentes llevaron a cabo una parada del vehículo y, mientras se acercaban al vehículo, observaron varios paquetes de marihuana dentro del SUV. Agentes arrestaron al conductor y al pasajero. La marihuana pesaba 234 libras y vale un estimado de $187Mil. El Departamento de Seguridad Pública de Texas tomó la custodia de ambos sujetos y la marihuana.

Esa misma noche, agentes de Falfurrias que trabajaban en el puesto de control remitieron una camioneta blanca para inspección secundaria después de que una Patrulla Fronteriza K-9 alertaba. En el secundario, una inspección de una caja de herramientas bloqueada reveló cuatro paquetes de marihuana que pesaban más de 178 libras y valían un valor estimado de $143 Mil. La Patrulla Fronteriza arrestó al conductor y lo escoltó a la estación para su procesamiento. La Administración de Control de Drogas tomó la custodia del conductor y los narcóticos.

El lunes por la noche, agentes de la Ciudad de Río Grande que trabajan cerca de Garceno, Texas, observaron que múltiples traficantes de drogas tocan tierra en la orilla del Río Grande. Poco después, los agentes observaron un Chevrolet Blazer hacer contacto con los contrabandistas y luego procedieron a cargar los paquetes en el vehículo. El vehículo entonces huyó de la zona a una alta velocidad. Al llegar a la autopista 83, el conductor se detuvo y abandonó el vehículo. Los agentes llegaron poco después y descubrieron más de 323 libras de marihuana, con un valor estimado de $285 Mil. La Administración Antidrogas se hizo con la custodia del contrabando.

El martes por la tarde, agentes de la Ciudad de Río Grande que trabajaban en Garciasville, Texas, observaron un SUV sospechoso de contrabando de narcóticos viajando hacia el norte desde el Río Grande. Los agentes intentaron llevar a cabo una parada de vehículo que llevó al conductor del vehículo a dar la vuelta y abandonar el SUV cerca del río. Un helicóptero de los operaciones aéreas y marinas (AMO) observó al conductor del vehículo nadar a través del río hacia México. Los agentes descubrieron seis paquetes de marihuana en el SUV abandonado. La marihuana pesaba más de 465 libras con un valor aproximado de $372Mil.

Se alienta al público a tomar una posición contra la delincuencia en sus comunidades y a ayudar a salvar vidas reportando actividades sospechosas al 800-863-9382.

Visite www.cbp.gov para ver comunicados de prensa adicionales y otra información relacionada con Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza. Síguenos en twitter @CBPRGV,  @CBPAMO y @USBPChiefRGV


 

EL PASO, Texas – Not since 2008 has CBP’s Air and Marine Operations El Paso Air Branch (AMO El Paso) flown the U.S. military’s premier utility helicopter – the UH-60 Black Hawk – in support of border security operations. The UH-60 is the most ubiquitous military helicopter in the world, and probably the most versatile. It will replace older UH-1N “Huey” helicopters that will be retired and sold.

The UH-60A+ version transferred to El Paso AMO from the U.S. Army will greatly increase the unit’s capability to accomplish its missions. The Black Hawk provides a 10% increase in speed over the Huey or AS-350 (the most used helicopter in AMO El Paso), a 25% increase in service ceiling over the AS-350, 67% increase in range over the AS-350 and more than double that of the Huey, and a 50% increase in endurance over the AS-350.

The Black Hawks will enable AMO El Paso to get to a location faster, remain longer, and carry more people, systems, or cargo in all kinds of weather. Missions will include aerial patrols, external lift operations such as sling loads, fast rope and rappel operations, insertion of agents into otherwise inaccessible terrain, search and rescue, and aircrew rifle operations. Other capabilities will allow better communication with, and guidance of, law enforcement partners. The first of two Black Hawks allocated to AMO El Paso arrived on November 4th, and pilots immediately began qualifications training on the new platform. The second unit is scheduled to arrive by spring. A UH-60L scheduled to arrive in 2021 will add to AMO El Paso’s ability to rapidly provide medical aid in the field and to transport those needing medical attention.

“The speed and range of the UH-60 platform is a game-changer for AMO El Paso, where distance and terrain often impact our operations,” said John Stonehouse, Director of CBP’s El Paso Air Branch. “The versatility of the UH-60 helicopters will give the El Paso Air Branch the ability to rapidly respond to law enforcement emergencies with a tactical team, or to medical emergencies with EMTs on board. This asset can also be deployed during natural disasters to assess damage and to transport supplies, emergency personnel, and injured victims.”

The mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations, is to serve and protect the American people by employing advanced aeronautical and maritime capabilities and our unique skill sets to increase America’s security. With 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft, and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, AMO uses its sophisticated fleets to detect, track, intercept, and apprehend criminals in diverse environments at, and beyond, U.S. borders.

So far since the beginning of Fiscal Year 2020 in October, AMO agents have participated in the apprehension of 4,153 individuals by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Department of Homeland Security components. In addition, AMO agents have contributed to the seizure of 11,488 pounds of cocaine, 910 pounds of marijuana, 192 pounds of methamphetamine, 45 pounds of fentanyl, and one pound of heroin, while supporting interagency and international partners.

AMO El Paso has the largest Area of Responsibility in the Southwest Region, including West Texas, all of New Mexico, and all of Oklahoma.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPWestTexas  and @CBPAMO.

YUMA, Ariz.– Yuma Sector Border Patrol and Air and Marine Operations—Yuma Air Branch located and rescued a 77-year-old man after receiving a call for assistance from the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) Wednesday morning.

At approximately 8 a.m., YCSO requested assistance from the Yuma Sector Border Patrol to help locate a possible missing person. The man was last seen Saturday after failing to arrive at a predetermined location. A Yuma Air Branch pilot and a Border Patrol Tactical Unit agent activated and flew the presumed route of travel eventually locating the man and his vehicle stuck in a wash. The agent on board egressed to assist the individual and assess his condition. The Yuma Air Branch pilot returned to base to pick up a Yuma Sector Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue operator and an Emergency Medical Technician to assist in prepping the individual for transport. Two Wellton Station agents joined the effort and the team carried the 77-year-old man to the top of a hill where an Arizona Department of Public Safety helicopter landed and picked him up.

“Having the Air and Marine Operations—Yuma Air Branch nearby and able to collaborate with our agents in locating individuals in distress is absolutely vital to ensuring lifesaving aid reaches those in need as quickly as possible,” said Yuma Sector Chief Patrol Agent Anthony J. Porvaznik. “This cohesive partnership with our CBP Air and Marine Operations agents forms a seamless barrier of defense for our citizens and communities.”

Air and Marine Operations—Yuma Air Branch covers both the Yuma and El Centro Border Patrol sectors, and is responsible for roughly 125 miles of border in Arizona and California. In FY2019, Yuma Air Branch conducted seventy search and rescue missions.

“Working in collaboration with our CBP, and local partners is a critical aspect, allowing us to effectively carry out our rescue and recovery, and law enforcement mission, said AMO Yuma Branch Director James C. Schuetzler, Jr. Our pilots’ ability to partner with, and insert Border Patrol agents, when and where they need to be, directly resulted in saving this man’s life.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Individuals can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. Reporting illicit activity could result in saving someone’s life. 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.— A CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO)P-3 Orion Long Range Tracker crew assigned to the National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville, spotted a suspicious vessel in the Eastern Pacific Ocean loaded with cocaine with an estimated $28 million wholesale value. 

The P-3 Orion crew detected the low-profile go-fast vessel in the Eastern Pacific Ocean on Jan. 9.  The crew contacted the U.S. Coast Guard, which intercepted the vessel, described as a 60-foot low-profile go-fast vessel.  Two Colombian nationals and two Ecuadorian nationals were found aboard the vessel, as well as approximately 2,200 lbs. of cocaine.

The National Air Security Operations Center-Jacksonville forms half of the P-3 operations wing, along with its partner center in Corpus Christi, Texas. These P-3 aircraft operate throughout North and South America in defense of the United States borders, by preventing attempts to smuggle persons or contraband. The center is an active partner with FEMA, the U.S. Department of Energy and NORAD in times of national crisis such as Hurricane Harvey or post 9/11.

AMO is a federal law enforcement organization dedicated to serving and protecting the American people through advanced aeronautical and maritime capabilities. AMO interdicts unlawful people and cargo approaching U.S. borders, investigates criminal networks and provides domain awareness in the air and maritime environments, and responds to contingencies and national taskings. With approximately 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, AMO serves as the nation’s experts in airborne and maritime law enforcement.

In Fiscal Year 2019, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the approximate seizure or disruption of 284,825 pounds of cocaine; 101,874 pounds of marijuana; 51,058 pounds of methamphetamine; 935 weapons and $34.1 million. AMO enforcement actions also facilitated 1,575 arrests and 52,036 apprehensions of illegal aliens.

For more information about CBP, visit: CBP.gov, Flickr, DVIDS, or follow us on Twitter at @CBP and @CBP Florida.

FAJARDO, Puerto Rico – U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) agents detected and arrested 3 individuals on Thursday trying to smuggle 34 blocks of cocaine through the Maternillo sector in the east of the island. 

 "We have advanced aeronautical and maritime mechanisms to detect vessels trying to bring narcotics to the island," said Johnny Morales, Director, Air and Marine Operations of the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch (CAMB). "We always appreciate the collaboration of other local and federal entities public order to stop cases like this.” 

On the morning of January 23, an AMO marine unit received information about a suspicious vessel approaching Maternillo Beach in Fajardo. The CAMB’s Fajardo marine unit  found a yola that landed in the mentioned sector, seeing three individuals and a white SUV. 

AMO agents gave an alert and managed to arrest the three subjects. They found a black lump with an undetermined amount of blocks, whose field test showed the properties of cocaine. A Joint Forces for Rapid Action (FURA) unit attended the scene.

United States Immigration and Customs Service (ICE) Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) assumed custody of smuggling and the suspects for investigation and prosecution.

The mission of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations is to safeguard our Nation by anticipating and confronting security threats through our aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise, innovative capabilities, and partnerships at the border and beyond. With 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, Air and Marine Operations uses its sophisticated fleets to detect, sort, intercept, track and apprehend criminals in diverse environments at and beyond U.S. borders.

FAJARDO, Puerto Rico -Agentes de Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas (AMO) de Aduana y Protección Fronteriza de los Estados Unidos (CBP), detectaron y arrestaron a 3 individuos el jueves intentando contrabandear 34 bloques de cocaína por el sector Maternillo en el este la isla.   

"Tenemos mecanismos aeronáuticos y marítimos avanzados para poder detectar embarcaciones que intentan traer narcóticos a la isla,” declaró Johnny Morales, Director de Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas de la Rama Aérea y Marítima del Caribe. “Agradecemos siempre la colaboración de otras entidades locales y federales de orden público para poder detener casos como este.”   

En la mañana del 23 de enero, una unidad marítima de AMO recibió información de una embarcación sospechosa acercándose a la Playa de Maternillo en Fajardo.  La unidad marítima de Fajardo de CBP encontró una yola que desembarco por el mencionado sector, divisando a 3 individuos y una SUV blanca.   

Los agentes de AMO dieron una alerta y lograron el arresto de los tres sujetos.  Encontraron un bulto negro con una cantidad indeterminada todavía de bloques, cuya prueba de campo arrojo las propiedades de la cocaína.  Una unidad de FURA asistió en la escena.   

Agentes de Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional (HSI) del Servicio de Inmigración y Aduanas de los Estados Unidos (ICE) asumieron la custodia del contrabando y de las personas para su investigación y enjuiciamiento. 

La misión de las Operaciones de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza, Aérea y Marítima de EE. UU. Es salvaguardar nuestra nación anticipando y confrontando las amenazas de seguridad a través de nuestra experiencia en la aplicación de la ley de aviación y marítima, capacidades innovadoras y asociaciones en la frontera y más allá. Con 1.800 agentes federales y personal de apoyo a la misión, 240 aeronaves y 300 embarcaciones marítimas que operan en los Estados Unidos, Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes estadounidenses., Air and Marine Operations utiliza sus flotas sofisticadas para detectar, clasificar, interceptar, rastrear y capturar criminales en diversos entornos dentro y fuera de las fronteras de los Estados Unidos.

ATLANTA— U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers from the Port of Savannah, GA have deployed to help secure Super Bowl LIV in Miami, FL. In addition, Atlanta Field Office CBP Special Response Team (SRT) officers are on duty with Miami area law enforcement to assist with safety and security at key locations in Southern Florida and are also supporting other Department of Homeland Security response personnel.

Savannah CBP officers are collaborating with other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of the game through the usage of Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) vehicle equipment. This equipment will be used to perform onsite inspections of vehicles making deliveries to Hard Rock Stadium by obtaining an x-ray image of the contents inside of vehicles.

“We are honored to work alongside our law enforcement brothers and sisters in Miami to ensure the Super Bowl is a safe and secure event, just as they did with us here in Atlanta last year,” said Donald F. Yando, Director of Field Operations Atlanta. “CBP Atlanta SRT and Savannah CBP officers are highly trained and will be critical to the security efforts.” 

This is the second consecutive year that CBP Savannah and CBP Atlanta Field Office SRT will be contributing to the safety efforts of the big game, as they provided the same security functions during Super Bowl LIII last year in Atlanta, GA.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

IMPERAL BEACH, Calif.—A San Diego area smuggling event led to the death of one person and put another individual in grave condition on Monday due to unusually high surf and cold winter weather.

“We are saddened by the loss of life,” statedU.S. Border Patrol (USBP) San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Aaron M. Heitke.  “The smuggling of humans puts its victims in dangerous and harsh conditions and maritime smuggling is especially dangerous, as we saw in this incident.”

At approximately 2:30 a.m., Joint Harbor Operation Center (JHOC) operators observed a suspicious vessel traveling north off the Imperial Beach coast and requested the USBP, the United States Coast Guard (USCG), and Air and Marine Operations (AMO) to respond to the area.

As USBP, AMO, and USCG responded, JHOC informed them that the boat appeared dead in the water before capsizing.  In addition, JHOC witnessed two people enter the cold and stormy ocean.  

AMO arrived on scene in the Coastal Interceptor Vessel to find that the distressed vessel, an open-platform Bayliner style, had overturned in the high surf and that the passengers were being assisted by other responding components along the shoreline.  AMO Marine Interdiction Agents stayed on scene, just outside the surf line, to assist with look out and provide additional lighting.

Chief Patrol Agent Aaron M. Heitke explained, “Smugglers often overcrowd small, open vessels, and in the cases where personal floatation devices are provided, they are often unsafe and insufficient.  Sea conditions, visibility, and weather are not important considerations to smugglers as they place an emphasis on profit over their victims’ safety.”

On shore, USBP agents found the capsized boat and seven people nearby, with two in need of life-saving measures.  Agents aided all seven and began cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the two men who were in a critical state until emergency medical services (EMS) arrived.

The two men were transported by EMS to an area hospital where one, a 62-year-old Mexican national, was pronounced dead upon arrival.  The second individual, a 44-year-old Mexican national, is in grave condition and is being treated for life-threatening injuries.

“The perils associated with maritime smuggling cannot possibly be overstated.  Today, the careless actions of those responsible for directing covert smuggling efforts resulted in the tragic loss of life,” said Timothy Sutherland Director of Air and Marine Operations in San Diego.  “Any loss of life is both tragic and unacceptable, particularly because it was avoidable.  This is yet another sobering moment that reminds us of the price so many victims have paid.”

The five remaining individuals were determined to beMexican national men ranging from 22 to 51 years of age.  They were all illegally present in the U.S. and were transported to a nearby USBP station for processing.

Chief Heitke added, “I’m proud of all the agents involved and their diligent, lifesaving efforts.”

The captain of the boat, a 51-year-old man, will remain in Federal custody facing criminal charges.  The boat was seized by AMO.