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  4. Five Illegal Aliens in Distress Rescued by Yuma Sector and Yuma Air Branch

Five Illegal Aliens in Distress Rescued by Yuma Sector and Yuma Air Branch

Release Date
Thu, 08/13/2020

YUMA, Ariz. – Wellton Border Patrol Station and Yuma Air Branch agents collaborate to rescue five severely dehydrated illegal aliens who called for help through Mexico’s 911.

Wellton Border Patrol Station and Yuma Air Branch agents collaborate to rescue five severely dehydrated illegal aliens who called for help through Mexico’s 911.On Wednesday morning, Wellton Station was notified by emergency services (Mexico 911) that there were illegal aliens out of water and complaining of severe dehydration in Wellton Station’s area of responsibility. Wellton agents and a Yuma Air Branch AS 350 ASTAR helicopter were mobilized and dispatched to the coordinates of the lost aliens in the Sierra Pinta Mountain Range. Approximately an hour after the call, the Yuma Air Branch pilot spotted three subjects. The pilot successfully landed and delivered a USBP Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to the subjects’ location.  The subjects were provided water and they reported that they left two others behind in worse condition.  Approximately two hours later, the pilot and agents located the two missing subjects 2 miles northeast of the location of the original three subjects. 

The five rescued illegal aliens consisted of four male Mexican nationals and one male Guatemalan national illegally present in the United States. After being treated and deemed fit for travel, the five individuals had record checks run. Three Mexican nationals were processed for immigration violations due to their extensive criminal history.  The remaining two individuals were expelled through the San Luis Port of Entry.

The Wellton USBP Agent/EMT that was dropped off via helicopter to deliver assistance is a 21-year veteran of the patrol.  The Wellton agent stated, “They thought they were going to die when they made the 911 call.  They had no water for two days in this blistering heat. Fortunately, we were able to get to them in time to provide the life-saving aid they desperately needed.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Individuals can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. Reporting illicit activity could result in saving someone’s life. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021