CBP Agents Apprehend 11 Illegal Immigrants Near St. Thomas After Vessel Malfunction

Individuals from Romania, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic were intercepted by Border Patrol agents en route to Puerto Rico

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents apprehended 11 illegal immigrants on Sunday as they attempted to travel from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to Culebra, Puerto Rico. The group, comprised of individuals from Romania, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic, was intercepted by Border Patrol and Marine Interdiction agents after their private vessel encountered mechanical difficulties near Botany Bay, St. Thomas.

Acting Chief Patrol Agent for the Ramey Border Patrol Sector, Reggie Johnson, mentioned the importance of addressing smuggling operations in the region. "Smuggling organizations exploit diverse routes and methods to introduce people or contraband throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands," Johnson said. "We have the collective resolve to address illicit flows and protect our communities by collaborating with local and federal partners."