By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–The U.S. Coast Guard and partnership agencies interdicted a 25-foot panga-style vessel carrying 15 individuals approximately 25 miles off Point Loma on Thursday.
The boat crew arrived on the scene and issued commands for the vessel to stop. The operator abandoned the steering console, which caused the vessel to drift erratically. The Coast Guard gained control of the vessel and turned off the engine. During this process, the panga collided with the Coast Guard’s small boat, resulting in minor damage to the starboard railing.
The individuals aboard the vessel were determined to represent multiple nationalities, including China, Uzbekistan, Mexico, Ecuador, Vietnam, and El Salvador.
One individual was observed experiencing hypothermia-like symptoms and was transported by emergency medical services to UCSD Hillcrest for medical evaluation, accompanied by Border Patrol agents. The other individuals were safely transferred to U.S. Border Patrol custody.
The Coast Guard continues to work closely with partner agencies to deter and respond to dangerous smuggling operations that put lives at risk.
