Border Patrol ramps up mobile field force training in Yuma Sector

As the number of people crossing illegally through the shallow area of the Colorado River increases, border patrol said they have to keep up with tactics that migrants use to cross into the Yuma sector.

One to two marine boat units patrol the river daily, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Agents said the last time they pulled a body out of the river was nearly six months ago.

“In the river, it’s fair game, they can get in the river and cross, it’s when they hit landfall is when we’ll react and make the apprehension,” said Vincent J. Dulesky, Special Operations Supervisor with the Yuma Sector Border Patrol.

Dulesky said that with the current immigration climate and the migrant caravan that’s brought thousands of asylum seekers at once, it has been a situation they haven’t seen in years in the area.

“Before 2 or 3 years ago, they were evading us, they were cutting holes in the border fence, and they were running through the barriers,” said Dulesky.

He also added that there are now family units that are crossing and surrendering to agents.

“Now they’re coming to the fence jumping over and then turning themselves into agents. A majority of them are either claiming asylum or credible fear,” said Dulesky.

Agents added they are ramping up their mobile field force training that is designed to teach agents how to handle large groups of people when crossing.