TUCSON, Ariz. – Ajo Station Border Patrol agents responding to a 911 call and rescue beacon activation’s in the west desert Tuesday night rescued five distressed migrants who had crossed illegally into the United States.
Agents at the Ajo Station received a 911 call at approximately 9 p.m. regarding four distressed migrants who claimed they had been wandering in the desert for five days. Agents were unable to determine the migrants’ exact location based on the call but were able to guide the migrants to a nearby rescue beacon. Once the migrants arrived at the beacon, agents encountered four male adult Mexican nationals who, although distressed, declined medical care.
Around the same time, a separate rescue beacon was activated west of Ajo. When agents arrived at that location, they encountered one male Honduran who also declined medical care.
All five migrants will be processed for immigration violations in accordance with Tucson Sector guidelines.
Unscrupulous smugglers often abandon migrants in the desert, some of which perish before being found. Border Patrol officials encourage anyone in distress to call 911 or activate a rescue beacon before becoming a casualty.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous. Contacting the Border Patrol to report illicit activity could result in saving someone’s life. Website
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