In recent weeks, suspects have used firearms to shoot at several U.S. Border Patrol agents in Texas and California. In each case, agents found cover from shots fired without harm to themselves or others.
“U.S. Border Patrol agents continue their unwavering commitment to provide border and national security to the American public despite recent attacks against them along our Southwest border. We take these threats and acts of violence seriously and will do everything we can to identify and bring those to justice who have sought to harm the men and women of the Border Patrol,” said U.S. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz.
As is always the case, Border Patrol agents are well trained, equipped and remain vigilant while carrying out their national security mission. Security measures are being enhanced in select locations.
These attacks, however, are a reminder that criminals will stop at nothing to further their illegal activities. Border Patrol agents too often face life-threatening confrontations as they secure America’s borders. In many cases, agents find themselves in remote locations where they are significantly outnumbered and do not have immediate backup. U.S. Border Patrol has protocols in place to protect the safety of agents and the public while conducting operations to enforce the nation’s laws.
Threats and assaults against CBP personnel are taken very seriously. U.S. Border Patrol is collaborating with U.S. federal and Mexican law enforcement authorities regarding these recent incidents, which are being investigated. Violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) are a threat to our national security and to public safety. They are heavily involved in smuggling people, including terrorists, criminals, and trafficking victims, as well as weapons, cash, and drugs through sophisticated criminal networks. TCOs conduct their operations without regard for human life – money and power are their only motivation.
U.S. Border Patrol will continue its mission to intercept these criminal actors who endanger the lives of the American public and will assist our law enforcement partners in bringing to justice anyone attempting to harm Border Patrol agents.
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