Staff Reports
Multiple instances of armed individuals sneaking into the United States from Mexico have been uncovered by the Department of Homeland Security, highlighting the increasing security concerns at the southern border. On August 18, agents attempting to apprehend a group of illegal immigrants were fired upon not once, but twice. This was the most alarming incident. Thankfully, none of the agents were injured, but both the gunman and the unlawful immigrant group were able to flee back into Mexico. This incident has caused the Border Patrol grave concern, as it represents a "escalating" degree of violence.
Gunshots at border as smugglers take aim at agentshttps://t.co/5kcd0uEBAl pic.twitter.com/qIRojZu0Uw
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) August 27, 2023
The 18th of August saw an incursion in the Otay Mountain Wilderness Area, a terrain that is frequently traversed by migratory groups. However, this was not the only incident in which armed individuals were observed. National Guard soldiers deployed to assist the Border Patrol recently spotted an armed individual scaling the border fence in the same location. The following day, two additional armed individuals were observed in the same location.
In each of these instances, the Border Patrol's tactical response team was deployed, but they were unable to apprehend anyone. The incident on August 18 was the most dangerous, with agents confronting two rounds of gunfire. Multiple shots were discharged when an agent attempted to arrest the group of migrants, sparking the initial exchange of gunfire. Then, muzzle flashes were observed near the migrants, followed by another barrage of gunfire. Agents were compelled to seek cover as the group and, presumably, the gunman retreated into Mexico. Despite the tactical response team's efforts, no individuals or weapons were discovered.
Chief Border Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel from the San Diego sector expressed concern for the safety of agents and migrants. She stated that these incidents and individuals pose a substantial threat to those patrolling the area and illegal immigrants attempting to enter the country. McGurk-Daniel believes that these armed incursions are retaliation for the Border Patrol's effective efforts to thwart smuggling operations. She emphasized that smugglers are indifferent to the welfare of migrants and law enforcement.
In the past, allegations of armed incursions were more frequent, particularly during the George W. Bush administration. During the Obama and Trump administrations, however, they have decreased. These incidents have resurfaced, however, as chaos at the frontier has increased under President Biden. It is evident that the Border Patrol's efforts to thwart the illegal activities of smuggling cartels are having a significant impact, despite the fact that a violent backlash is inevitable. It is imperative that the Biden administration take immediate action to address this grave security concern and ensure the safety of border patrol agents and migrants.
