The rigorous efforts of the U.S. Border Patrol agents in the San Diego Sector resulted in the arrest of a suspected MS-13 gang member, as agents were on duty near Chula Vista last week. According to a report from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the arrest occurred in the early hours of November 22, after agents intercepted a group suspected of entering the country illegally. One individual in this group initially attempted to deceive authorities with false personal information.

Upon their arrival at the Border Patrol Station for processing, it was unmasked, that the man had falsely claimed to be a citizen of Mexico. Instead, investigations confirmed he was a 32-year-old from El Salvador with alleged ties to the notorious MS-13 gang. In a statement obtained by CBP Newsroom, San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel praised her team, "I applaud our San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents for their diligence and dedication to protecting our country."

The individual in question is currently being detained under the custody of the Department of Homeland Security and awaits expedited removal proceedings. The arrest brings attention to the ongoing work of border patrol agents in controlling the influx of gang members into the United States. This fiscal year has seen San Diego Sector agents apprehend 26 known gang members, a significant 62.5% increase from the year prior, highlighting the persistent challenge faced by border security forces.

The U.S. Border Patrol has reiterated its commitment to safeguard the nation, sustaining a vigilant watch over the transit routes leading away from the nation's borders. Community members who witness or suspect illegal activities are encouraged to report to the San Diego Sector by calling (619) 498-9900, such cooperation is critical in the fight against the cross-border smuggling of humans, drugs, and, other illegal contraband.