Border Patrol Setting up Beacons, Landmarks

Posted: May 14, 2012 4:03 PM
Updated: May 14, 2012 5:54 PM

WESLACO - U.S. Border Patrol agents are using the new border strategy to rescue immigrants near the checkpoint. Border Patrol agents predict a more efficient response to a call for help. They're using part of the latest Border Patrol strategy to find immigrants in the brush.

CHANNEL 5 NEWS reported Border Patrol agents will shift into a more intel-based approach to guarding the border. Agents are already using intel to set up rescue beacons and landmarks around common immigrant routes.

There are nearly 900 markers around the Falfurrias checkpoint. Immigrants, hunters, and other agents can use these markers to navigate and get help.

Special announcements about immigration will soon broadcast on television. Agents hope it will discourage Rio Grande Valley families from hiring smugglers.

Nearly 240 people were rescued last year; 66 were found dead. The numbers for this year are climbing rapidly.

Border Patrol Setting up Beacons, Landmarks | KRGV.com | CHANNEL 5 NEWS | Breaking News Breaking Stories