Contributed Article/Courtesy U.S. Customs and Border Protection
NOGALES – Seventeen people were saved from dangerously cramped and overheated conditions in Nogales this week after authorities uncovered a smuggling operation last Wednesday.
Several illegal aliens from Mexico, including one minor, were found packed inside a recreational vehicle parked on the property. In contrast, others were confined in a small sedan that was discovered during a vehicle stop. Temperatures inside the cars were rising quickly under the summer sun, and those inside had limited space, ventilation, and no access to running water.
One individual attempted to flee on foot but was arrested by agents shortly after. All individuals are now safe, in custody, and will be processed accordingly. The driver of the sedan is a United States Citizen, facing human smuggling charges.
“This rescue likely prevented a tragedy,” said Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent Sean L. McGoffin. “With summer temperatures already climbing, packing people into trailers and vehicles without proper ventilation or water is a recipe for disaster. Human lives should never be treated as cargo.”
According to the National Weather Service, Safford is expected to reach triple digits on Friday and continue to get hotter as the month progresses.
