U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents apprehended 17 illegal aliens early Wednesday morning after intercepting a panga-style vessel operating without lights near San Clemente Island, according to CBP.
The incident began when sailors aboard the USS Sampson detected a northbound vessel traveling in darkness in the coastal waters southwest of San Diego. CBP said the behavior was consistent with maritime smuggling tactics commonly used along the Southern California coastline.
Following the Navy’s detection, Marine Interdiction Agents with CBP’s Air and Marine Operations deployed a response crew from the San Diego Marine Unit. Agents reached the vessel at approximately 2:40 a.m., where they found 17 individuals on board. All claimed Mexican citizenship.
The individuals were taken into custody without incident and later transferred to San Clemente Border Patrol agents for processing under federal immigration law.
CBP officials said the interception highlights ongoing efforts to counter maritime smuggling organizations that attempt to transport migrants into the United States using small, high-risk vessels. Such operations often involve nighttime crossings, unregistered boats, and dangerous ocean conditions.
Air and Marine Operations, a component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, works with federal, state, and international partners to identify smuggling routes, intercept vessels, and prevent illegal entry into the United States. Officials said cooperation between the U.S. Navy and CBP remains a critical element of maritime security off the American coastlines.
CBP did not release additional details about the smuggling operation, including whether a suspected smuggler was identified or detained. The agency said the investigation is ongoing.
The interception comes amid increased maritime enforcement across the region as federal agencies continue efforts to disrupt smuggling networks and protect coastal communities.
