Human Smuggling Bust in Fort Lauderdale Leads to Over 10 Arrests
FORT LAUDERDALE – A significant human smuggling operation was disrupted early Saturday morning, resulting in more than 10 arrests, authorities confirmed.
Border Patrol agents were dispatched to the shoreline near North Ocean Boulevard, close to the Sea Watch Restaurant, where an overturned boat was found on the beach.
Investigators revealed that a Bahamian citizen was apprehended at the scene, along with 11 Chinese migrants who had been smuggled into the United States. The migrants were detained, and the suspected smuggler was taken into custody.
Authorities emphasized that those involved in the smuggling operation will face criminal consequences under federal law.
Officials have not disclosed further details about the conditions of the migrants or whether additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues. This bust highlights the ongoing challenges of combating human smuggling operations in South Florida’s coastal areas.
More updates are expected as Border Patrol and local agencies continue their inquiry into the incident.