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Coast Guard Intercepts Boat Carrying Illegal Immigrants Near San Diego

On Friday, a crew from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) successfully apprehended 21 undocumented immigrants aboard a 25-foot vessel approximately 20 miles west of Point Loma, California. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to manage illegal immigration along maritime routes.

According to reports, the illegal migrants were taken into custody and subsequently transferred to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel. A USCG news release provided details of the incident and included a photograph depicting two USCG vessels alongside the small craft.

The operation involved the USCG cutters Haddock and Forest Rednour, in addition to a CBP Air and Marine Operations patrol aircraft, which all collaborated to intercept the migrants. Following their interception, the individuals were brought to Coast Guard Sector San Diego before being handed over to Border Patrol agents.

Enhanced Patrols Amid Increased Illegal Immigration Concerns

In response to directives from former President Donald Trump, the Coast Guard has ramped up its border security initiatives to address rising concerns regarding illegal immigration. This increase in presence is part of a broader strategy to enforce maritime borders effectively.

Recent reports indicate a pattern of interception; for instance, military personnel had intercepted two separate vessels carrying illegal immigrants bound for San Diego earlier this year—one on January 25, which included nine individuals, and another on February 2, with 16 individuals aboard.

The Coast Guard is augmenting its resources and personnel nationwide to assist the Department of Homeland Security in its endeavors to curb unauthorized migrant crossings.

“In line with the President’s Executive Orders, the Coast Guard is diligently enhancing its capabilities to protect America’s borders and uphold territorial integrity,” stated Adm. Kevin Lunday, who is currently serving as the acting commandant of the Coast Guard.

During Trump’s inaugural month in office, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recorded just 8,326 apprehensions of undocumented immigrants, marking the lowest monthly total in recent history. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Thanks to the Trump Administration Policies, the Border is CLOSED to all Illegal Immigrants. Anyone who tries to illegally enter the U.S.A. will face significant criminal penalties and immediate deportation.”

The ongoing operations by the Coast Guard reflect a commitment to maintaining security along U.S. borders as illegal immigration remains a contentious issue in national discourse.

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