Coast Guard Detains 37 Migrants in October

Thirty-seven undocumented migrants were detained off the Southern California coast in October, according to a U.S. Coast Guard announcement released on Sunday. The agency reported that the interdictions occurred between Oct. 5 and Oct. 30, with operations covering waters near Los Angeles County.

The largest group of individuals was discovered on Oct. 9. A patrol crew aboard the Cutter Narwhal located 23 suspected migrants on a 25-foot cuddy-cabin vessel. The boat was found near Santa Cruz Island, which is the largest of the Channel Islands. Coast Guard officials stated that a Channel Islands crew seized the vessel and transferred it to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

CBP took custody of the migrants following the interception. The group was first brought to the USCG base in Los Angeles-Long Beach, officials said. The Coast Guard noted that it collaborates with federal and international partners to disrupt human smuggling operations and ensure the safety of those at sea.

Capt. Jason Hagen, the Southwest District chief of enforcement, said the operations reflect a persistent, multi-mission presence throughout the region. He stated that crews stand ready to conduct border security operations and enforce federal laws.

Hagen said dangerous and illegal migration attempts place lives at risk. He noted that this is especially true when smugglers use overcrowded, poorly equipped vessels that are not suited for ocean conditions.