Border Patrol Arrests Nearly 70 Migrants in El Paso’s Storm Drain System
U.S. Border Patrol agents have apprehended 69 migrants who were discovered inside El Paso’s stormwater drainage system, according to a news release from the agency. The arrests were made earlier this week after agents received information about a possible illegal entry near the Boone Storm Drain area, east of the Bridge of the Americas international port of entry.
Agents from the El Paso Station Confined Space Entry Team (CSET) responded to the report and initiated a search. They found an entry point through a manhole near Interstate 10 and detected high levels of chlorine at the site.
During the operation, the CSET agents intercepted and apprehended a group of 27 migrants. Shortly after, they responded to a second entry point at the same location near Paisano Avenue, where they detained an additional 43 migrants exploiting the storm drains.
The migrants arrested were from various countries including Guatemala, Mexico, Bolivia, Honduras, and El Salvador. Among them were four unaccompanied juveniles from Mexico and Guatemala. All the individuals were medically evaluated and are now being processed for removal under Title 8.
El Paso Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Anthony Scott Good stated, El Paso Sector Border Patrol Agents continue to successfully disrupt dangerous human smuggling schemes and the illicit operations of transnational criminal organizations. The storm drain system is dangerous and poses serious risks to not only the migrants but to our Border Patrol agents and law enforcement partners.
The Border Patrol reiterated its commitment to working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to deliver consequences, through criminal prosecution and formal removal, for individuals and smugglers who exploit the storm drain system. Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) have been using these manholes within the city of El Paso for many years as part of their operations.
The El Paso storm drain system is vast and complex, posing numerous risks to migrants who attempt to enter the United States through it. These risks include encountering chemicals, toxic gases, insects, and venomous animals. Some of the storm drains are only a few inches in diameter, thereby raising the possibility of drowning or suffocation for those who become trapped.
Moreover, the complex drainpipe system that runs from the City of El Paso to the Rio Grande River can transport toxic and hazardous substances, posing serious health risks. The Border Patrol strongly advises against attempting such dangerous journeys, emphasizing the potential for injury or even death.
The case of these nearly 70 migrants being discovered in the storm drain system highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in the area. It serves as a reminder of the dangerous tactics employed by smuggling organizations and the need for continued vigilance in protecting both the migrants and the agents entrusted with their safety.
In conclusion, the Border Patrol’s successful operation in apprehending these migrants underscores the risks and consequences associated with illegal border crossings through the storm drain system. It serves as a powerful reminder that law enforcement remains committed to safeguarding border communities and thwarting the illicit activities of smuggling organizations.
