By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–The Coast Guard intercepted a panga with 14 people aboard approximately 20 miles off the coast of Point Loma Tuesday night.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection notified Coast Guard personnel at the Joint Harbor Operations Center of a panga-style vessel traveling north toward the maritime boundary line.
The Coast Guard Cutter Terrell Horne was diverted to the scene. Upon arrival, the cutter launched a boarding team, and with CBP’s assistance, successfully interdicted the vessel.
The boarding teams discovered 14 individuals aboard the panga. Initial interviews revealed that all individuals claimed Mexican nationality.
They were safely transferred to the U.S. Border Patrol custody.