SAN DIEGO—U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents have encountered an unprecedented number of Brazilian nationals in San Diego Sector (SDC) this fiscal year (FY).
Since Oct. 1, 2020, SDC agents have apprehended more than 7,300 Brazilian nationals. This is in sharp contrast to the 330 Brazilian nationals apprehended in all FY2020.
Every month since April of 2021, SDC has encountered more than 1,000 Brazilian nationals who entered the U.S. illegally. This represents more than a 114,000% increase from the same timeframe in FY20, where SDC saw six total apprehensions of Brazilian nationals.
Due to language barriers and other factors, processing these large numbers of Brazilian nationals strains limited resources – increasing the number of agents removed from patrol duties and being reassigned to processing centers.
SDC continues to manage the current surge of migrants crossing illegally as the Sector’s FY21 to-date encounters and apprehensions exceed 100,000, the highest number in over a decade.
USBP San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Aaron M. Heitke said, “Despite the challenges, our agents remain resolute protecting America while processing migrants in a humane and professional manner. I am proud of all they do and the sacrifices they make every day.”
To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our Nation’s borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at 619-498-9900.
