Thread: Human smuggling boat lands near H.B.CA. Surf Contest

Published: Aug. 7, 2011 Updated: 10:15 a.m.

Officials: Human smuggling boat lands near H.B.'s U.S. Open

By CINDY CARCAMO / THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

HUNTINGTON BEACH – Three foreigners in a panga-type boat attempted to land on Huntington State Beach, about a mile from the U.S. Open of Surfing, on Sunday morning, according to U.S. Coast Guard officials.

At 8:20 a.m., a small fishing boat attempted to make a landing just south of the municipal pier near lifeguard Tower 7, off Magnolia Street, Coast Guard spokesman Lt. Sean Arumae said.

The boat then headed back to sea again when those aboard spotted lifeguards and a few people around the beach at the time, Arumae said. Soon after, the boat seemed to have engine trouble and became dead in the water, he added.

Sheriff's deputies and lifeguards are working the case and immigration officials are on their way, Arumae said.

More information to come.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7924 or ccarcamo@ocregister.com or www.twitter.com/thecindycarcamo

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