EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Sector Border Patrol is warning residents on both sides of the border of the dangers of entering the International Boundary and Water Commission canals after a recent water rescue.
Video of water rescue provided by U.S. Border Patrol
On Tuesday, March 19, the Ysleta Border Patrol and the El Paso Fire Department successfully rescued two migrants from the canal, west from the Zaragoza International Port of Entry, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
CBP says that every year, large water volumes of water are released into the canals from reservoirs upstream in New Mexico. The canals are deeper than they appear and often carry strong water currents and powerful undertow as more water is released for irrigation purposes.
“Ruthless criminal smugglers continue to recklessly endanger the lives of vulnerable migrants who do not understand the dangers of illegally crossing the border and are often coerced into these unpredictable canals. Transnational criminal organizations treat migrants as commodity for their own selfish financial gain and have little regard for their safety,” El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Anthony Scott Good said.
In 2024, the El Paso Sector has performed over 290 rescues, according to CBP.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection are encouraging residents to report suspicious activity to 1-800-635-2509. Residents calling will remain anonymous.
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