Seventeen people were taken into custody after a suspected smuggling boat was towed to the San Diego shore by lifeguards, authorities reported Thursday. The incident unfolded when the panga, a type of modest-sized, open, outboard-powered fishing boat commonly used in Central America, ran into engine trouble off the coast of Mission Beach and was subsequently spotted at about 7 a.m., prompting someone to alert federal officials, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
The stranded boat was towed to the lifeguard dock at Quivera Basin, and upon arrival, the lifeguards' efforts transitioned from rescue to law enforcement as Border Patrol agents took over, officials told Fox 5 San Diego those aboard were thereafter arrested, including all 17 passengers who were adult Mexican nationals in the country without proper documentation, according to Border Patrol, they were promptly transported to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing. In the wake of this event, Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Eric C. Lavergne of U.S. Customs and Border Protection underscored the importance of community vigilance, stating, "The community can assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection and its law enforcement partners by reporting information or suspicious activity to the Joint Harbor Operations Center at 1-800-854-9834 Ext 1," this in a statement obtained by FOX 5 San Diego.
No injuries were reported when San Diego Lifeguards towed the disabled boat from the Mission Bay Channel to their headquarters, ensuring the passengers reached the dock safely. The boat's journey that began in uncertainty on the open waters concluded under the control and custody of US federal agents, where the next chapter for these individuals remains hazy and contentious as conversations surrounding immigration and border security continue to occupy our minds and policy.
Details about the smuggling operation remain sparse, and authorities have not released additional information concerning the passengers' intended destination or if others are involved in this attempted crossing.
