102 suspected of illegally entering U.S. surrender to authorities

102 Central Americans who were suspected of illegally entering the United States west of Lukeville surrendered to Border Patrol agents Tuesday morning.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said agents spotted a group of 102 people with surveillance technology along the vehicle barrier that works as an international boundary with Mexico.

All individuals surrendered to authorities who stated were similar to the past groups that were found in the area the last six months. The group consisted of Guatemalan and Honduran nationals with children consisting of the entire group. 12 of them were unaccompanied, CBP said.

CBP officials said the agents provided security and transportation to the Ajo station for additional processing.

“Smuggling organizations have expanded their exploitation of Central Americans to unprecedented levels,” said Tucson Sector Chief Roy Villareal. “By transporting these large groups of families to remote desert areas, it’s clear they have little regard for the safety and well-being of these families. Their sole intent is to disrupt border security efforts.”