CA. Border patrol agents intercept smuggling boat, arrest 13
CARLSBAD: Border patrol agents intercept smuggling boat, arrest 13
North County Times wire services | Posted: Monday, February 20, 2012 2:38 pm
Border Patrol agents arrested 13 Mexican nationals when a smuggling boat was intercepted Monday off Ponto Beach at the southern end of Carlsbad.
Border Patrol agents were conducting surveillance along the coastline and spotted the panga-style boat as it approached the beach just after 2 a.m., Border Patrol spokesman Michael Jimenez said.
The boat stayed in shallow water as some passengers jumped out and waded toward the shore, Jimenez said. Eight men, one boy and three women were apprehended on the beach, he said.
They were arrested on suspicion of being in the country illegally and will be deported, Jimenez said.
The two suspected smugglers remained in the boat, which then turned to head south, Jimenez said.
Agents in a patrol boat stopped the panga and arrested the two suspected smugglers.
CARLSBAD: Border patrol agents intercept smuggling boat, arrest 13
