More Security at Rio Grande City International Bridge
More Security at Rio Grande City International Bridge
Reported by: Erica Proffer
Last Update: 10:16 am
RIO GRANDE CITY - U.S. Customs and Border Protection have increased its manpower at the international crossing in Rio Grande City.
The extra officers are now patrolling with 60 pounds of equipment strapped to their chest and armed with an automatic rifle.
"We are operating at a high level of readiness, and we are prepared to meet any challenge that comes our way," said Felix Garza of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The amount of extra officers has not been made public. Authorities tell us all details are confidential, including a timetable for how long the officers will be here.
"Our priority is to facilitate legitimate travel and to process commercial cargo... at the same time, provide security to the international travelers and to the employees," said Garza.
Traveler Maria Gonzalez calls it a relief.
"I think it's very ugly over there," said Gonzalez.
The violence escalated on the Mexican side of the bridge over the weekend. Cartel members attacked Mexican customs workers. Two people were kidnapped.
"It is something that happened on the Mexican side. It didn't happen on the U.S. side. But we are prepared to meet a challenge if it comes our way," said Garza.
The Starr County sheriff's office, Rio Grande City police, and Border Patrol agents also help monitor the security in the area.
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