CALEXICO, Calif. – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the El Centro Sector rescued an individual who was at risk of drowning in the All-American Canal last Friday.
The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m., when El Centro Border Patrol Station Remote Video Surveillance System (RVSS) operators observed two subjects illegally enter the United States. RVSS observed the two enter the All-American Canal (AAC) and attempt to travel north by floating across. One of the subjects, although he was wearing a life vest appeared, to have a difficult time floating across.
RVSS operators notified agents working in the field of their observations. Agents quickly responded to provide aid. At approximately 12:42 p.m., an agent arrived on scene and successfully deployed a rescue bag to pull the individual to safety.
Agents conducted a welfare check of the individuals, but they declined any medical attention. It was determined that the two individuals, both nationals of Mexico, were without proper documentation to be in the United States legally. They were apprehended and transported to the El Centro Sector Centralized Processing Center for further processing.
All individuals will be medically evaluated and processed accordingly.
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.