Border Officers Rescue Men Entering US Illegally

US Customs and Border Protection officers launched a helicopter rescue operation Sunday after a group attempting to enter the US illegally called 911.

Unsure where they were and with one person needing medical attention, the group sent CBP officers photos of their surroundings from cell phones. A crew member on the helicpoter recognized the location, and officers made the rescue by the top of Otay Mountain near the border.

β€œCell phone technology and cell phone service in border areas have come a long way, and are often used as a lifeline by people trying to cross illegally into the U.S.,” said Hunter Davis, Director of Air Operations for the San Diego Air and Marine Branch. β€œHowever, long treks through difficult terrain remain dangerous and put people at risk. Smugglers mislead people all of the time about the dangers of trying to enter the U.S. illegally – the bottom line is that you’re still risking your life.”

After the hour and a half search, officers transported the men, all Mexican citizens, to a local station and treated one for dehydration. The men, aged 24, 25, and 49, needed no other medical attention.
 

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