http://www.kvoa.com/global/story.asp?s= ... =Printable

4 groups of illegal immigrants apprehended near '103' wildfire
May 31, 2006, 03:08 PM MST

Every firefighter knows the inherent risks of his or her job, but what many don't realize when they are called to a fire like the 103 Fire on the border is that there is a whole new set of challenges.
The corridor between Naco and Nogales, right where the 103 Fire is burning has been known for years as a popular smuggling route for armed traffickers of both humans and drugs, also making it well known for high speed pursuits.

Rangers describe smugglers as doing whatever they have to do to get back across the border without being caught.

A National Park Service ranger, who wanted his name to remain anonymous for his own safety in the area, tells News 4 at least four groups of illegal immigrants have been apprehended since the fire started.

Because night activity is harder to monitor, about eight law enforcement officers are sent with fire crews to help protect them.

"The firefighter's job is to put the fire out," says Stephen Gunzel, District Ranger from the Sierra Vista Ranger District.

Meanwhile, he says, armed officers help watch their backs as they're working.

What many discover as they cross illegally on foot or in a vehicle, is that there are more law enforcement officers from all types of agencies roaming the area.

Those agencies include the National Park Service, Border Patrol and the Cochise County Sheriff's Department.

It is an element of the job many of the crew members don't expect, even those from Southern Arizona.