Cloned Delivery Van Smuggling Nine Undocumented Migrants Seized by CBP in California
A fake delivery van packed with undocumented migrants was busted near the U.S.-Mexico border—proof that smugglers will stop at nothing. 🌐 #News #SanDiegoCA #California #Crime
SAN DIEGO, CA – A routine delivery vehicle in California turned out to be anything but ordinary when Border Patrol agents discovered it was being used to smuggle nine undocumented migrants. The vehicle, disguised as a delivery van, was stopped near the U.S.-Mexico border, leading to the arrest of the driver and passengers and the seizure of the “cloned” van.
A Suspicious Van on the Road
On December 17, 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents at the Campo station, located southeast of San Diego, noticed a white van driving near Tierra Del Sol Road and Highway 94.
The van, which displayed delivery service logos, caught the attention of agents because the branding did not match that of a legitimate delivery vehicle. Suspecting something unusual, they decided to stop the van for further inspection.
Nine Undocumented Migrants Found Inside
When agents approached the vehicle, they found nine people lying on the floor and seats in the rear. The individuals did not have any documentation proving they were legally present in the United States.
The driver, a U.S. citizen, was immediately arrested. The undocumented passengers were also taken into custody.
Van Seized, Driver Faces Federal Charges
The “cloned” van, which had been altered to appear like a standard delivery vehicle, was seized by CBP agents. The driver is now facing federal prosecution for their involvement in the smuggling attempt. This case marks another example of how smugglers go to great lengths to conceal illegal activities.
“This is a stark reminder of the great lengths smuggling organizations will take to conduct their illicit activity,” said Chief Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel of the San Diego Sector.
“San Diego Sector Border Patrol continues to remain vigilant in detecting and dismantling criminal activity in the San Diego area.”
RELATED TOPICS: California | Crime | Mexico
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