Failed Smuggling Attempt Evolves into Border Patrol Rescue

This is the Jet Ski used during the smuggling attempt, alongside a Border Patrol SAFE Boat. (Courtesy of CBP)
This is the Jet Ski used during the smuggling attempt, alongside a Border Patrol SAFE Boat. (Courtesy of CBP)

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to Buffalo Station observed three subjects, on what appeared to be a stranded jet ski, stuck in the ice near the southern portion of Beaver Island State Park, on March 13th.

Two of the individuals were able to walk across the ice and successfully reach the U.S. shoreline on Grand Island.

The third individual was rescued and brought to shore by the Grand Island Fire Department using ropes and a small inflatable rescue craft while U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Air and Marine Operations (AMO) provided air support.

All of the individuals were evaluated by paramedics on scene and subsequently taken into custody.

They were then transported to the Buffalo Border Patrol Station for further processing, and the case as been referred to the U.S. Attorney’s office.

(Learn More. See how the CBP Air and Marine’s operations and equipment are used to secure the maritime borders of the United States. CBP Air and Marine is a little known division of the US Customs and Border Patrol agency. It is America’s third largest naval force after the Navy and Coast Guard. Courtesy of The Federal File and YouTube.)

The investigation revealed that the operator of the Jet Ski, a citizen of Brazil and a current resident of Canada, was allegedly illegally smuggling a citizen of Spain and Brazil into the U.S.

“I commend our agents for apprehending this smuggling attempt and our local partner agencies which responded and provided support and assistance,” commented Patrol Agent in Charge Jeffrey Wilson from the Buffalo Border Patrol Station.

CBP welcomes assistance from the community.

Citizens can report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-800-331-0353 toll free.