TUCSON, ARIZ.—In an effort to reach out to young people in Arizona's border communities and reduce the number of juveniles involved in narcotics smuggling, Naco Border Patrol agents visited schools in the Bisbee and Sierra Vista areas within the last two weeks.
On Jan. 30, Naco agents, along with canine and Horse Patrol units, visited the Cactus Wren Cooperative Preschool in Sierra Vista to encourage the children to stay in school and participate in positive activities. Children were able to view the horses and watch a canine-sniff demonstration.
On Feb. 8, Naco agents gave presentations to Bisbee High School and Lowell Junior High School students about the dangers of drug smuggling - part of the Tucson Sector's "Operation Detour" campaign.
The Tucson Sector Border Patrol implemented Operation Detour as a public awareness campaign designed to educate youth about the dangers of getting involved with drug trafficking organizations. Through Operation Detour, the Border Patrol is taking a preventative approach to reduce the number of adolescents who become involved with smuggling organizations.
The number of youths impacted by Operation Detour has grown exponentially since its inception in May of 2010. Thousands of southern Arizona students have seen the presentation which educates children and teens by depicting the dangers that befall individuals who become involved with criminal organizations.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free.