YUMA, Ariz.– Wellton Border Patrol Station and Yuma Air Branch agents collaborate to rescue five severely dehydrated illegal aliens who called for help through Mexico’s 911.

On Wednesday morning, Wellton Station was notified by emergency services (Mexico 911) that there were illegal aliens out of water and complaining of severe dehydration in Wellton Station’s area of responsibility. Wellton agents and a Yuma Air Branch AS 350 ASTAR helicopter were mobilized and dispatched to the coordinates of the lost aliens in the Sierra Pinta Mountain Range. Approximately an hour after the call, the Yuma Air Branch pilot spotted three subjects. The pilot successfully landed and delivered a USBP Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to the subjects’ location.  The subjects were provided water and they reported that they left two others behind in worse condition.  Approximately two hours later, the pilot and agents located the two missing subjects 2 miles northeast of the location of the original three subjects. 

The five rescued illegal aliens consisted of four male Mexican nationals and one male Guatemalan national illegally present in the United States. After being treated and deemed fit for travel, the five individuals had record checks run. Three Mexican nationals were processed for immigration violations due to their extensive criminal history.  The remaining two individuals were expelled through the San Luis Port of Entry.

The Wellton USBP Agent/EMT that was dropped off via helicopter to deliver assistance is a 21-year veteran of the patrol.  The Wellton agent stated, “They thought they were going to die when they made the 911 call.  They had no water for two days in this blistering heat. Fortunately, we were able to get to them in time to provide the life-saving aid they desperately needed.”

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. 

Del Rio, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Uvalde and Carrizo Springs Stations conducted multiple rescues, Aug. 11.

“The danger individuals face while illegally entering the United States is raised exponentially by the brutal Texas summer heat,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Austin L. Skero, II. “Thanks to the awareness, experience and quick actions of our agents, two more lives were saved.”

At approximately 4 p.m., agents assigned to the Carrizo Springs Station responded to a call for assistance from a local rancher, reporting possible illegal aliens on a ranch near Carrizo Springs. With the help of a CBP Air and Marine Operations helicopter crew, responding agents began a search for the individuals around their last known location. Shortly after, agents received information that the lost subjects could see the helicopter. After locating them, the pilot was able to guide ground agents to the subjects in distress. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived and administered crucial medical aid before transporting the patients to the local hospital for treatment of severe dehydration.

Later that evening, agents assigned to the Uvalde Station discovered an individual vomiting on the side of the roadway. Agents immediately called for EMS, due to their training and experience with heat-related injuries. EMS personnel transported the individual to a local hospital where test results determined the subject’s kidneys were not functioning properly.

The subjects will be processed per CBP guidelines.

To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.

Follow us on Facebook at US Border Patrol Del Rio Sector and on Twitter and Instagram @USBPChiefDRT.

SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Air and Marine Branch (SDAMB), in collaboration with U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents, Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office (SBSO), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and other partners, interdicted a ‘super panga’ off the coast of Southern California Tuesday, seizing thousands of pounds of suspected methamphetamine and making multiple arrests.

In the early morning hours of August 19, SDAMB Multi-role Enforcement Aircraft crew detected a multi-engine panga with four subjects on board, and relayed the information to USBP agents on the ground, who coordinated the apprehension of suspects involved and seizure of assets. The investigation and prosecution of the subjects is continuing.

“The citizens of this country can rest assured that CBP is ever vigilant in their duty to protect the American people and stand ready to combat those criminals that would deliver this poison to our streets, saving American lives,” said Timothy Sutherland, Director San Diego Air and Marine Branch.

The SDAMB has already made a big impact in the illicit drugs entering via California this fiscal year. In FY20 year to date through July 31, SDAMB has contributed to the seizure of 480 lbs. of cocaine, 199,307 lbs. of marijuana, 191 lbs. fentanyl, 114 lbs. of heroin, and 2,948 lbs. of methamphetamine. SDAMB seized, 80 weapons, 81 vehicles/vessels, and contributed to the apprehension of 2,618 individuals.

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

WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) continues to standardize, and modernize, its aviation fleet through the long-term acquisition of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter variants and H125 helicopters for units across the nation.

The most recent acquisitions of the UH-60 and H125 models occurred in August 2020. The El Paso Air Branch received two UH-60 helicopter variants to replace UH-1 Huey models, enabling increased speed, range, and capability to transport twice the amount of personnel. AMO will allocate 12 additional UH-60 helicopter variants, which will bring the fleet to a total of 35 by Fiscal Year 2027.

AMO accepted the first of 17 Airbus H125 helicopters (the new manufacturer designation for AS350 models) in Grand Prairie, Texas, on August 11. The H125 aircraft will replace EC120 and older AS350 models. This shift toward a standardized fleet demonstrates a commitment to modernization and increased effectiveness.  

AMO’s objective to streamline airframes reduces operational and training costs; mitigates training requirements for pilots, crew, and maintenance personnel; increases crew capabilities and interoperability between units; and directly aligns with AMO Vision and Strategy 2030 goals.

AMO safeguards 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 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 @CBPAMO.

MIAMI – U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) agents, along with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and Monroe County EMS service partners, worked a migrant interdiction south of the Florida Keys on Tuesday evening—leading to the interdiction of 15 Cuban migrants on a small vessel.  

An AMO aircrew onboard a Multi-Role Enforcement aircraft received information of a go-fast vessel originating out of Cuba and headed north.  The crew spotted the vessel south of Islamorada, Florida headed north toward the Florida Keys. The crew requested assistance from AMO Marine agents, who launched multiple vessels from both the Marathon and Key Largo Marine Units to intercept. The U.S. Coast Guard station in Islamorada was notified as well. 

AMO Marine agents successfully intercepted and stopped the go-fast vessel approximately 10 miles south of Islamorada, and discovered a total of 15 Cuban migrants on board. One migrant was in distress and suffering from apparent dehydration. One of the AMO crews took the dehydrated migrant back to the dock in Islamorada, where Monroe County Fire Rescue EMT’s treated the migrant on scene. The migrant was subsequently returned to the group.  AMO crews made arrangements with USCG Sector Key West to have a USCG Cutter rendezvous with the crews, in order to transfer the migrants to the larger vessel.  

Later, all the migrants were transferred to a USCG Cutter for identification and repatriation. The migrant vessel was transported to the USCG station in Islamorada for evidence collection and seizure. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is conducting follow on investigations.

“This event is a great example of why an integrated strategy is successful,” said Southeast Region Executive Director John Priddy. “I am proud of the work our crews did today.”

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

SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Air and Marine Branch (SDAMB), in collaboration with U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and other partners, interdicted a panga-style boat with nine individuals onboard off the coast of Carlsbad, California Thursday night.

On August 20, at about 10:20 p.m., SDAMB Multi-role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA) crew detected a single-engine panga with nine subjects aboard and guided a SDAMB Coastal Interceptor Vessel (CIV) to the suspected boat.

The CIV crew attempted to stop the vessel utilizing blue lights, sirens and spotlight, but the panga failed to yield. In compliance with CBP policy, AMO agents placed disabling rounds into the suspects’ engine to bring it to a stop, at approximately 12 nautical miles west of Carlsbad.  

AMO crews relayed the information to USBP agents on the ground, who took custody of the suspects. The investigation is continuing.

“AMO agents and our Regional Law Enforcement partners remain vigilant, committed and focused on detecting, intercepting and disrupting smuggling attempts off the Southern California coast, said Timothy Sutherland, Director of the San Diego Air and Marine Branch. “This interdiction is another example of AMO’s unique capabilities, which combines technology, aviation and maritime assets and the training and expertise of our dedicated agents.”

The SDAMB has already made a big impact in the illicit drugs entering via California this fiscal year. In FY20 year to date through July 31, SDAMB has contributed to the seizure of 480 lbs. of cocaine, 199,307 lbs. of marijuana, 191 lbs. fentanyl, 114 lbs. of heroin, and 2,948 lbs. of methamphetamine. SDAMB seized, 80 weapons, 81 vehicles/vessels, and contributed to the apprehension of 2,618 individuals.

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

ENCINITAS, Calif. — On August 24, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents, in conjunction with Homeland Security Investigations, the Marine Task Force (MTF), and Air and Marine Operations (AMO), arrested 14 individuals connected to a maritime smuggling event.

The incident began at approximately 10:30 a.m., when a concerned citizen called the Joint Harbor Operations Center (JHOC) to report that a suspicious panga-style vessel had beached near Stone Steps Beach in Encinitas.  The JHOC notified Border Patrol agents who responded to the location.

Through a video review, agents determined that 13 individuals disembarked the vessel.  Responding quickly, agents apprehended seven people in the local neighborhood and determined they were illegally present in the U.S.

Following interviews and intelligence gathering, agents discovered that the remaining suspects were staging at a nearby hotel.  Border Patrol agents, with assistance from MTF agents, conducted an investigation at the hotel.  Finding the suspects, agents made seven additional arrests and discovered personal use narcotics.

Further investigation by agents led to the discovery of another hotel room in South Gate, CA that was intended to be used to further the subjects’ illegal entry into the United States.  With assistance from the Los Angeles Border Enforcement Security Task Force, a search of the hotel room resulted in the discovery of 4.97 pounds of methamphetamine and a non-serialized AR style rifle, also known as a “ghost gun”. Officers from a local police department seized the rifle and meth. 

A total of nine Mexican citizens, two Salvadoran citizens, and one Honduran citizen were determined to be unlawfully present in the U.S. One U.S. citizen and one lawful permanent resident from Mexico were arrested during this incident and booked for felony alien smuggling (8 USC 1324).  The remaining 12 subjects were processed for removal at a nearby Border Patrol station.

AMO seized the vessel.  USBP seized the personal use narcotics and two vehicles.

Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke stated, “Our agents remain committed to securing our borders against any unlawful incursions.  As demonstrated today, community members play a vital role in assisting our operations. We are grateful for their continued support.”

See similar event from June 30, 2020

If you have information about maritime smuggling or suspicious activity along the California coast, please call the San Diego Joint Harbor Operations Center at 1-800-854-9834, extension 1, or notify local law enforcement by dialing 9-1-1.

YUMA, Ariz.—A U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Yuma Air Branch AS350 crew responded to a Mexico 911 call, yesterday, locating two subjects near the southern end of the Granite Mountains.

Air and Marine agents initiated an aerial search and found the subjects atop a ridgeline, dropped Gatorades, and signaled for them to descend from the mountain. The aircrew landed, and delivered an EMT to provide medical attention before Ajo Border Patrol agents arrived to take both into custody.

The Yuma Air Branch continues to conduct search and rescue operations to deliver life-saving medical care to those in need. This fiscal year so far, Yuma-based aircrews have completed 52 rescues, composing 34 percent of all Southwest Region rescues, and 30 percent of AMO rescues during the same timeframe.

In one example from May 2020, Yuma-based aircrews located two groups of people in need and helped to coordinate rescues with Border Patrol agents. An EC120 crew located a couple in medical distress and an AS350 crew found a group that had been lost in the desert for a week without water.

The EC120 aircraft is a medium-range, turbine-powered helicopter used by AMO primarily as a Light Observation Helicopter. The EC120 provides a highly-effective aerial surveillance platform in the border desert areas where terrain can be difficult to traverse on foot.

The AS350 A-STAR helicopter is a short-range, turbine-powered helicopter. AMO uses these Light Enforcement Helicopters (LEH) to perform missions such as aerial patrol and surveillance of stationary or moving targets.

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.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection maintained a strong rescue and relief presence in storm-stricken areas of Louisiana since Hurricane Laura made landfall early Thursday.

Two CBP incident command centers in Houston, Texas, and Hammond, Louisiana, were opened and staffed with CBP personnel and assets to assist in response and rescue efforts.

“We stood up both of those incident command centers to provide on-the-ground oversight of what’s actually occurring, and where our assistance may be needed for both saving lives and responding to any needs that our personnel may have,” said Brian S. Hastings, Chief Patrol Agent of the Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol and Lead Field Coordinator for Region VI.

CBP is no stranger to rescue and relief efforts following major natural disasters. To ensure a coordinated response, planning began long before the storm hit Louisiana.

“We start to prepare for these types of storms like Hurricane Laura about seven days out,” said Director of Field Operations—Houston, Judson W. Murdock, incident commander in Houston for Region VI.

Currently, CBP’s Air and Marine Operations has four Black Hawk helicopters and aircrews deployed to the area as a quick-response asset capable of launching quickly to perform rescue missions. A CBP-AMO P-3 Long Range Tracker crew deployed to capture critical aerial imagery of damage in the affected areas, and a P-3 Airborne Early Warning crew flew over Louisiana to provide airspace deconfliction.

“The P-3 AEW aircraft is equipped with an air search radar that helps us give air traffic advisories to relief aircraft from AMO, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Department of Defense. This is a critical function that only an AMO P-3 can provide,” said Supervisory Air and Marine Agent Dan Jordan, National Air Security Operations Center in Corpus Christi, TX.

AMO teams were prepared to deploy once the storm formed in the Atlantic Ocean, and fine-tuned deployment plans as the storm approached and more information became available.

“In Hurricane Marco’s early stages when landfall was expected on the Texas Gulf Coast, AMO was prepared to evacuate the aircraft and operate from another location. As Marco became less of a threat, plans shifted toward providing immediate post-landfall relief for Hurricane Laura,” said Jordan.

Additionally, 14 United States Border Patrol riverine vessels were pre-deployed to an area outside of the projected path of the storm with a mix of 40 vessel commanders, Border Patrol Tactical Unit and Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue agents and stood ready to rapidly assist in any lifesaving missions.

“During Hurricane Harvey, CBP participated in over 1,400 rescues and so we continue to stand by, ready for any lifesaving mission that we are called upon to do,” said Chief Hastings.

An additional 21 volunteers, comprised of CBP officers and USBP agents, are ready deploy to Louisiana to assist as needed.

“All of our volunteers fully understand the impacts and devastation of hurricanes having lived through not only Hurricane Katrina but also Hurricane Rita so we look forward to helping our fellow citizens in the Lake Charles area,” said Director of Field Operations—New Orleans, Steven Stavinoha, and the incident commander in Hammond for Region VI.

Under the Department of Homeland Security’s National Response Framework, CBP responds to assist state, local and federal entities to provide emergency response in the aftermath of natural disasters like Hurricane Laura. 

“We continue working very closely with our state and local partners embedded with fusion centers and emergency operations centers to see if there’s any need for any of our assets and any of our folks as far as rescue capabilities,” said Chief Hastings.

MEXICO CITY—A joint effort between U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (AMO), Joint Interagency Task Force—South (JIATF South), and Mexican authorities led to the seizure of a suspicious aircraft loaded with more than a ton of cocaine.

On August 29, AMO agents and JIATF South tracked the movements of a suspicious plane operating in the Western Caribbean. AMO agents shared the U.S. radar information with the Mexican Air Force (SIVA), which intercepted the aircraft. SIVA reported finding 2,993 pounds of cocaine in the aircraft and arrested two male suspects.

This is just the latest of many seizures this partnership has led to in recent months. In July, SIVA seized a vehicle with 890 pounds of cocaine, after traffickers burned their aircraft and fled.

In May, AMO agents detected a suspicious aircraft movement and notified SIVA of the coordinates. SIVA subsequently reported seizing a vehicle with multiple weapons and 912 pounds of methamphetamine.

In April, AMO agents detected suspicious aircraft movements and relayed the information to Mexican authorities. SIVA reported finding and seizing 398 pounds of methamphetamine, 2.9 pounds of marijuana, 29 pounds of fentanyl, 4 packages of cocaine and an SUV at the landing site.

“No one agency can do all the work alone,” said AMO Executive Assistant Commissioner Edward Young. “Fighting drug trafficking organizations requires a whole of government and international partnership approach.”

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico–U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Puerto Rico Police Department arrested three illegal aliens from the Dominican Republic and seized 174.07 pounds (78.96 Kilos) of cocaine after making landfall near a beach in Dorado. 

On the morning of Sept. 2, a concerned citizen contacted CBP Public Affairs with information on suspicious activity in a Dorado Beach.  The information was immediately relayed to the Caribbean Air and Marine Operations Center (CAMOC) and the Ramey Sector Communications for detection and response.

Ramey Border Patrol Agents, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Agents and the Puerto Rico Police Department responded to Dorado, Puerto Rico near a popular venue called El Caracol. 

Border Patrol Agents confirmed the smuggling event took place and discovered 22-foot yola-type homemade vessel with two outboard engines beached on shore.

After an extensive search of the area, three illegal aliens from the Dominican Republic (all adult males) were arrested, and four bales containing bricks, which field-tested positive to the properties of cocaine. 

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) took custody of the three aliens and the contraband for investigation and prosecution.   

Citizens are welcome to contact us at 1(800)981-1313 for anonymous tips and information.

Follow us on Twitter: @CBPCaribbean

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico– Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza de los Estados Unidos (CBP) y el Departamento de Policía de Puerto Rico arrestaron a tres extranjeros ilegales de República Dominicana y confiscaron 174.07 libras (78.96 Kilos) de cocaína después de tocar tierra cerca de una playa en Dorado. 

En la mañana del 2 de septiembre, un ciudadano preocupado se comunicó con Asuntos Públicos de CBP con información sobre actividades sospechosas en un sector costero de Dorado. La información se transmitió inmediatamente al Centro de Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas del Caribe (CAMOC, por sus siglas en inglés) y al Centro de Comunicaciones del Sector Ramey para su intervención y respuesta. 

Los agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza de Ramey, los agentes de Operaciones Aéreas y Marinas (AMO) y el Departamento de Policía de Puerto Rico respondieron a Dorado, Puerto Rico cerca de un lugar popular llamado El Caracol. 

Los agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza confirmaron que el evento de contrabando tuvo lugar y descubrieron una embarcación casera tipo yola de 22 pies con dos motores fuera de borda varada en la costa. 

Después de una extensa búsqueda en el área, tres extranjeros ilegales de la República Dominicana (todos varones adultos) fueron arrestados y cuatro fardos que contenían ladrillos, que dieron positivo en el campo a las propiedades de la cocaína. 

Investigaciones de Seguridad Nacional (HSI) tomó la custodia de los tres extranjeros y el contrabando para su investigación y enjuiciamiento. 

Los ciudadanos pueden comunicarse con nosotros al 1 (800) 981-1313 para obtener información y consejos anónimos. 

Síganos en Twitter: @CBP  @CBPCaribbean

SAN DIEGO– Agents stopped 15 people off the coast of San Diego Wednesday night trying to enter the U.S. illegally at sea.

“The coordination here was key,” said Tim Sutherland, Director of Operations for the San Diego Air and Marine Branch of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations. “We had three crews spread across two aircraft and a vessel working together for many, many hours before we were able to apprehend these individuals safely while they were still at sea.”

At about 9 p.m. on Sept. 9, a crew aboard a multi-role enforcement aircraft detected a panga heading towards the United States from Mexico.  The crew continued to track the panga until they passed the tracking off to the crew of another Air and Marine Operations multi-role enforcement aircraft.  Between the two crews, they tracked the boat for about six hours as it made its way towards the San Diego coastline.  The aircraft crew began to direct the crew aboard an interdiction vessel on a path to intercept the suspected smuggling boat.

At about 3 a.m., the agents aboard the Air and Marine Operations boat intercepted the panga.  They turned on lights and sirens, directing the boat to stop, and the operator of the panga did.  Marine interdiction agents counted 15 individuals on board, and determined that all were Mexican nationals attempting to illegally enter the U.S.

The marine interdiction agents brought the 15 people safely to the dock where they were turned over to U.S. Border Patrol agents.  USBP agents determined the group included four women, ages 19-23, and 11 men, ages 22-45.

Agents processed the group for return to their home country; the suspected operator of the boat was held, pending federal criminal charges.

CBP marine interdiction agents seized the 27-foot panga. 

If you have information about maritime smuggling or suspicious activity along the coast of California, please call the Joint Harbor Operations Center at 1-800-854-9834, ext. 1 or call 9-1-1, and you will be directed through the proper channels.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a member agency of the Regional Coordinating Mechanism (ReCoM). Other members include federal, and state and local law-enforcement agencies operating in Southern California.  The ReCoM coordinates planning and operations to target the threat of transnational crime along the California coastal border.

FAJARDO, Puerto Rico – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Agents, seized Tuesday 80 bales of cocaine weighing 3,941 pounds (1,787.4 Kilos) and arrested two US citizens attempting to reach the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico.  The estimated value of the seized cocaine is $ 44.7 million. 

“AMO leverages all of its resources to interdict smugglers throughout this area,” stated Johnny Morales, Director, Air and Marine Operations for the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch.  

On Sept. 15, the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch (CAMB) launched a New Orleans Air and Marine Branch (NOAMB) Multi-Role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA) to conduct a Border Security Patrol on the east and southeast of Puerto Rico.

Near midnight, the MEA crew detected a suspect vessel approximately 75 nautical miles south of St, Croix, US Virgin Islands, navigating northbound at a high rate of speed.

The New Orleans crew contacted AMO Marine Units and maintained surveillance to assist in the interception, as the vessel moved towards Vieques, Puerto Rico. The AMO Marine Unit intercepted the suspect vessel in Vieques waters.

AMO Marine agents arrested two US citizens, and found 80 bales containing bricks, which tested positive to the properties of cocaine. 

Homeland Security Investigation assumed custody of the defendants and the seized cocaine 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 Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza adscritos a Operaciones Aéreas y Marinas (AMO), incautaron el martes 80 fardos de cocaína que pesaban 3,941 libras (1,787.4 Kilos) y arrestaron a dos ciudadanos estadounidenses que intentaban llegar a la isla de Vieques, Puerto Rico. El valor estimado de la cocaína incautada es de 44,7 millones de dólares.

“AMO aprovecha todos sus recursos para interceptar a los contrabandistas en esta área”, dijo Johnny Morales, Director de Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas de la Rama Aérea y Marina del Caribe.

El 15 de septiembre, las Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas del Caribe (CAMB) lanzó una Aeronave en destaque adscrita a Nueva Orleans AMO para realizar una Patrulla de Seguridad Fronteriza en el este y sureste de Puerto Rico.

Cerca de la medianoche, la tripulación de avión detectó un barco sospechoso aproximadamente a 75 millas náuticas al sur de St, Croix, Islas Vírgenes de los Estados Unidos, navegando hacia el norte a alta velocidad.

La tripulación de Nueva Orleans se puso en contacto con las Unidades Marinas de AMO y mantuvo la vigilancia para ayudar en la interceptación, mientras la embarcación avanzaba hacia Vieques, Puerto Rico. La Unidad Marina AMO interceptó la embarcación sospechosa en aguas de Vieques.

Agentes de AMO Marine arrestaron a dos ciudadanos estadounidenses y encontraron 80 fardos que contenían ladrillos, que dieron positivo a las propiedades de la cocaína.

La Investigación de Seguridad Nacional (HSI, por sus siglas en inglés) asumió la custodia de los acusados ​​y la cocaína incautada para su investigación y enjuiciamiento.

La misión de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza, Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas, es salvaguardar nuestra Nación al anticipar y enfrentar las amenazas a la seguridad a través de nuestra experiencia en el cumplimiento de la ley marítima y de aviación, capacidades innovadoras y asociaciones en la frontera y más allá. Con 1.800 agentes federales y personal de apoyo de la misión, 240 aviones y 300 embarcaciones marinas que operan en los Estados Unidos, Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes estadounidenses, Operaciones Aéreas y Marítimas utiliza sus sofisticadas flotas para detectar, clasificar, interceptar, rastrear y detener a criminales en diversos entornos dentro y fuera de las fronteras de EE. UU.

EL PASO, Texas— U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations (AMO), AS350 aircrews based in West Texas conducted multiple individual rescues in extremely remote locations over a two-day period. AMO’s unique aerial capabilities equip aircrews to detect distressed persons, maneuver through challenging terrain, and relocate injured persons. During the current fiscal year, El Paso Air Branch (EPAB) crews have rescued 24 individuals. 

In a recent case, on September 5, an EPAB AS350 crew, from the Alpine Air Unit (AAU), responded to an aviation request from U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) Big Bend Sector to locate and rescue an individual in distress. The person had dialed 911 after suffering a snake bite. The aircrew was on patrol at the time of the call, and located the injured person at the top of a remote mountain in a position inaccessible to ground assets.

The aircrew donned personal protective equipment, made contact with the injured person (who had applied makeshift tourniquets above the snake bite). The man was in deteriorating condition. The aircrew transported him to Big Bend Regional Medical Center to receive treatment where medical personnel processed him accordingly.

On the same day, USBP Big Bend Sector, Marfa Station, requested aviation assistance for an agent in distress, potentially suffering from dehydration. In the early hours of September 6, an EPAB AS350 aircrew redirected from their assigned border enforcement mission to re-fuel locate, and rescue the stranded agent. The aircrew transported the agent to Big Bend Regional Medical Center for treatment where medical personnel released him later that day.

The AS350 Light Enforcement Helicopter (LEH) is a short-range, turbine-powered helicopter used by AMO to perform missions such as aerial patrol and surveillance of stationary or moving targets

AMO safeguards 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 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 @CBPAMO and @CBPWestTexas.

SAN DIEGO – U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations agents stopped a boat offshore of Sunset Cliffs early Wednesday morning with 17 men onboard attempting to illegally enter the U.S., including 16 Mexican nationals and one Cuban national.

“It took two warning shots before the vessel would stop,” said Tim Sutherland, Director of the San Diego Air and Marine Branch for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations.  “Unfortunately, we have smuggling organizations who will risk the lives of everyone on board, which is why our agents train on our protocols to safely stop smuggling attempts like this.”

The evening of Tuesday, Sept. 15, the crew of multi-role enforcement aircraft on patrol off the coast of San Diego began tracking a suspicious vessel traveling without navigational lights with many people on board.  The crew tracked the 24-foot panga as it traveled northbound from Mexican waters towards the U.S. coastline, handing off tracking to the crew of a second multi-role enforcement aircraft.  The crew of the second aircraft coordinated with the crew aboard a coastal intercept vessel, providing direction for the enforcement vessel to intercept the panga.

At about 1:30 a.m., the two boats met, and the crew of the intercept vessel turned on lights and sirens, directing the panga to stop.  However, the panga failed to yield and instead continued to flee.  The crew of the intercept fired two warning rounds, after which the panga operator stopped the vessel about 12 nautical miles west of Sunset Cliffs.

Air and Marine Operations (AMO) marine Interdiction agents determined that all 17 men on board were attempting to illegally enter the U.S., and brought the panga and occupants to the dock.  Emergency medical services personnel met the group at the dock after one of the men appeared lethargic; they were medically cleared. 

U.S. Border Patrol agents took custody of the 17 men for processing and determined that they were 16 Mexican nationals and one Cuban national, ages 19-40.  Agents processed the group for return to their home countries; the suspected operator of the boat was held, pending federal criminal charges.  AMO marine interdiction agents seized the panga.

Last week on Sept. 9, CBP Air and Marine Operations agents apprehended a group of 15 people off the coast of San Diego also trying to illegally enter the U.S.

If you have information about maritime smuggling or suspicious activity along the coast of California, please call the Joint Harbor Operations Center at 1-800-854-9834, ext. 1 or call 9-1-1, and you will be directed through the proper channels.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a member agency of the Regional Coordinating Mechanism (ReCoM). Other members include federal, and state and local law-enforcement agencies operating in Southern California.  The ReCoM coordinates planning and operations to target the threat of transnational crime along the California coastal border.

del rio, Texas –U.S. Border Patrol agents made several arrests with the assistance of CBP Air and Marine Operations’ Unmanned Aircraft System, Sept. 16.

In five separate events, UAS crews assisted agents in the field, resulting in 26 arrests. Eight illegal aliens were located and arrested near Comstock, 10 near Del Rio, seven near Eagle Pass, and four near Carrizo Springs.

AMO’s UAS crews use cutting-edge systems technology, and real-time networked data dissemination and exploitation to detect, identify, monitor, and coordinate a response with law enforcement partners to threats at the nation’s border and on approach to the United States. This real-time view allows agents to effectively patrol vast amounts of land that may be otherwise inaccessible to agents.

To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.

Follow us on Facebook at US Border Patrol Del Rio Sector and on Twitter and Instagram @USBPChiefDRT and CBP on Twitter @CBPSouthTexas.

Tucson, Ariz.— A U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations Tucson Air Branch UH-60 crew conducted a rescue in a remote mountainous area this week.

An AMO aircrew received notification, Sept. 20, of an alien in distress who was receiving treatment by Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue personnel in the foothills of the Baboquivari Mountains. The man suffered from severe dehydration. The four-person crew, including an AMO EMT, conducted a 70-foot hoist of the alien in distress and transported him to a waiting ambulance.

“Our crews perform high-risk missions that save lives in the unforgiving terrain and extreme heat on the southwest border. We train to perform these missions to respond to these types of life-threatening scenarios,” said Michael Montgomery, director, Air and Marine Operations at the Tucson Air Branch. “The agents continue to execute rescue missions despite risks to personal safety presented by terrain, weather, and potential illness carried by those they aim to save.”

Air and Marine Operations safeguards 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 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.

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

TUCSON, Ariz. – U.S. Border Patrol agents seized more than 170 pounds of meth and arrested three smugglers in the Mesquite Mountains east of Lukeville Wednesday morning.

Tucson Sector agents, accompanied by an air asset from CBP Air and Marine Operations, observed a group of suspected drug smugglers in a remote area of the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation around 10:30 a.m.

Agents tracked the group through treacherous terrain for several hours, finally apprehending three Mexican nationals. They also seized five backpacks filled with containers of white crystals that appeared to be methamphetamine.

Testing later confirmed the substance was consistent with the properties of meth. Its approximate street value is $170,000.

The suspected smugglers and drugs have been turned over to ICE Homeland Security Investigations.

For more details regarding this media release or to schedule a remote interview via the LiveU system, please contact the Tucson Border Patrol Sector Public Affairs Office at tca-pao@cbp.dhs.gov or at 520-748-3210.