Thread: Desert Denial nets 80 illegal aliens

http://www.vvdailypress.com/2006/114856795427416.html

BARSTOW — U.S Border Patrol agents have apprehended dozens of illegal immigrants during a weeklong operation.

"Operation Desert Denial" began at midnight on May 19 and resulted in the apprehension of approximately 80 illegal immigrants on the first night, according to El Centro Sector spokesperson Enriue Lavano.

"Agents are staying in Barstow while conducting the operation along portions of Interstate 40," said Lavano.

And at least nine vehicles directly involved in the smuggling of those arrested have also been seized as the operation continues, he added.

"Enforcement of federal law does not stop at the border, and smuggling must be eradicated, specifically along the main arteries of our nation's highways away from the border. The United States Border Patrol is committed in securing our nation's borders and providing an inhospitable environment for smuggling and terrorism." said Carl L. McClafferty, chief patrol agent for the El Centro sector.

Lavano said, agents use roving checkpoints as well as aerial observation during their operations.

According to Manny Lopez, president of the High Desert Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, hundreds of people noted the patrol's presence in town.

"When the officer that appeared to be in charge was asked why they were in Barstow, he said they were attending a Homeland Security conference," Lopez said.

"Operation Desert Denial" is similar to an operation conducted in the Barstow area last year.

That operation — Rampart — resulted in the seizure of 253.75 pounds of marijuana valued at $253,000 and the capture 1,500 illegal migrants, according Lavano.

I can see Bush's brother filing lawsuits by the ton for this.