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  4. Air and Marine Operations and Partners Intercept Smuggling Boat off Coast of Carlsbad

Air and Marine Operations and Partners Intercept Smuggling Boat off Coast of Carlsbad

Release Date
Fri, 08/21/2020
Panga Boat 082120
AMO crews along with partners
interdicted a panga-style boat with
nine individuals onboard off the coast
of California.

SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Air and Marine Branch (SDAMB), in collaboration with U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and other partners, interdicted a panga-style boat with nine individuals onboard off the coast of Carlsbad, California Thursday night.

On August 20, at about 10:20 p.m., SDAMB Multi-role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA) crew detected a single-engine panga with nine subjects aboard and guided a SDAMB Coastal Interceptor Vessel (CIV) to the suspected boat.

The CIV crew attempted to stop the vessel utilizing blue lights, sirens and spotlight, but the panga failed to yield. In compliance with CBP policy, AMO agents placed disabling rounds into the suspects’ engine to bring it to a stop, at approximately 12 nautical miles west of Carlsbad.  

AMO crews relayed the information to USBP agents on the ground, who took custody of the suspects. The investigation is continuing.

MEA
A Multi-role Enforcement Aircraft crew detected
the suspected single-engine panga-style boat.

“AMO agents and our Regional Law Enforcement partners remain vigilant, committed and focused on detecting, intercepting and disrupting smuggling attempts off the Southern California coast, said Timothy Sutherland, Director of the San Diego Air and Marine Branch. “This interdiction is another example of AMO’s unique capabilities, which combines technology, aviation and maritime assets and the training and expertise of our dedicated agents.”

CIV
A Coastal Interceptor Vessel crew attempted to
stop the vessel utilizing blue lights,
sirens and spotlight, but the panga failed to yield.

The SDAMB has already made a big impact in the illicit drugs entering via California this fiscal year. In FY20 year to date through July 31, SDAMB has contributed to the seizure of 480 lbs. of cocaine, 199,307 lbs. of marijuana, 191 lbs. fentanyl, 114 lbs. of heroin, and 2,948 lbs. of methamphetamine. SDAMB seized, 80 weapons, 81 vehicles/vessels, and contributed to the apprehension of 2,618 individuals.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPAMO, @CBPAMORegDirSW.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021