McALLEN, Texas (Border Report) — Border law enforcement rescued two migrants from the Rio Grande after they tried to swim back to Mexico, U.S. Customs and Border Protection says.
Two individuals were plucked from the international river on Monday night after they tried to flee back to Mexico after making landfall as a group on the U.S. side near Bentsen State Park in Mission, Texas, CBP says.
Border Patrol agents from the McAllen Riverine Unit helped along with U.S. Coast Guard patrols from Houston, which are in the area assisting with border security.
Coast Guard officers retrieved the struggling swimmers and took them on board a special vessel “preventing a potential drowning situation,” CBP said in a statement issued Wednesday.
The victims refused medical assistance and were apprehended with three other migrants in the same area and transported to the Rio Grande Valley Central Processing Center.
CBP’s Air and Marine Operation also assisted in the rescue.
“While our primary responsibility is securing the border, we remain committed to protecting human life, no matter the circumstances,” RGV Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria Chavez said. “Our Border Patrol agents exemplify bravery and selflessness in the face of danger.”
Sandra Sanchez can be reached at SSanchez@BorderReport.com.
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