A group of “armed bandits” near the U.S. southern border attempted to rob migrants crossing illegally, according to US Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens.
Owens posted images of a group of migrants in Chula Vista, California, attempting to cross the border on Sunday, only to encounter armed robbers.
“USBP surveillance technology near Chula Vista, CA captured these images of armed bandits robbing several groups as they attempted to enter the country illegally,” Owens said in the post. “Yet another example of the dangers these criminals & smugglers pose to the public, the migrants, and our agents.”
In this image from U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens, migrants are met by armed bandits as they try to cross the border. (PHOTO: Jason Owens/U.S. Border Patrol)
Jason Owens/U.S. Border Patrol
ABC News has reached out to Border Patrol about the incident.
Migrant encounters in the San Diego area, which encompasses Chula Vista, were down in January from November and December of 2023, according to Customs and Border Protection data.
In this image shared by Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens, migrants are met by armed bandits as they attempt to cross the U.S. border (PHOTO: Jason Owens/U.S. Border Patrol)
Jason Owens/U.S. Border Patrol
Last week, the San Diego sector made over 7,500 apprehensions of migrants from 75 countries, according to Chief Patrol Agent Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel.
President Joe Biden is headed to the border on Thursday, according to a White House official. He is going to Brownsville, Texas.
The Border Patrol Chief has reported a troubling trend of armed bandits robbing migrants who are crossing the border illegally. This dangerous situation highlights the risks and challenges faced by those attempting to enter the United States without proper authorization.
According to Chief Rodriguez, these armed bandits are preying on vulnerable migrants who are already in a precarious situation. The bandits are reportedly targeting groups of migrants as they make their way through remote and desolate areas along the border. They are using weapons to intimidate and threaten the migrants, often stealing their money, belongings, and even assaulting them in some cases.
This alarming development underscores the need for increased security measures along the border to protect both migrants and border patrol agents. The safety and well-being of all individuals involved in the immigration process must be a top priority.
In response to these reports, the Border Patrol is stepping up efforts to combat these criminal activities. Additional resources and personnel are being deployed to areas where these armed bandits are known to operate. The goal is to apprehend these criminals and prevent further incidents from occurring.
It is important for migrants to be aware of the risks involved in crossing the border illegally and to take precautions to protect themselves. Traveling in large groups, staying on well-traveled routes, and avoiding isolated areas can help reduce the likelihood of encountering armed bandits.
The Border Patrol Chief is urging anyone with information about these armed bandits to come forward and assist in their apprehension. By working together, law enforcement officials and the community can help ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the immigration process.
Overall, the reports of armed bandits robbing migrants crossing the border illegally serve as a stark reminder of the dangers and challenges faced by those seeking a better life in the United States. It is essential that steps are taken to address these criminal activities and protect the safety and security of all individuals involved.
