MCALLEN, Texas ̶̶ In order to enhance working relationships with area stakeholders, the Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sector hosted a meeting Thursday at the McAllen Station with local landowners and representatives from various partner agencies that work along the border.
RGV Stakeholders attendees at Anzalduas Park
The event featured discussions between RGV Sector senior leadership and local landowners, and built upon established cooperative efforts to make the border safer for all. The meeting was an excellent opportunity for the Border Patrol to discuss its mission, operations and path forward as well as for landowners to voice their concerns or suggestions.
Additionally, the event gave stakeholders an opportunity to learn more about some of the resources being used to secure the border. Assets from several specialty units such as all-terrain vehicles, dual-purpose motorcycles, Horse Patrol, K-9 teams, Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR), Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC), and others were on display at Anzalduas Park in Mission. Those attending the meeting were able to interact with agents from the various programs as well as take a brief tour of the Rio Grande by boat.
“It’s about improving relationships and I think we definitely accomplished that today,” Chief Patrol Agent Kevin W. Oaks said. “We received a lot of positive feedback from the landowners and even had offers of greater and broader access to their property.”
The Rio Grande Valley Sector is part of the South Texas Campaign, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity, call the sector’s toll-free telephone number at 800-863-9382.