Large group undeterred by infrastructure

TUCSON U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Ajo Station encountered a large group of Central Americans after they illegally entered the country west of Lukeville.

The group spread out before illegally entering in multiple locations throughout the same remote stretch of the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument west of the Port of Lukeville. Consisting of 135 individuals, mostly family units, the group exploited and surrendered in the same area as previous large groups.

To ensure the well-being and quick transportation of the families in the rising heat, resources were reallocated to the area, causing the two Border Patrol checkpoints on State Route 85 to be temporarily closed.   

Illicit transnational criminal organizations exploit the vulnerability of foreign nationals with false promises of legal status and encourage dangerous border crossings, placing lives at risk.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Individuals can report suspicious activity to Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.