Bi-National Law Enforcement Cooperation Pays Dividends for Border Security

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

El Paso, Texas – A potentially hostile situation was brought under control yesterday by Border Patrol agents in Ysleta in cooperation with Mexican authorities, when it was discovered that a gun being wielded by a juvenile turned out to be a toy replica.

On Monday, March 11, 2008 at approximately 12:15 p.m., Border Patrol agents from Ysleta, Texas observed two subjects attempting to make an illegal entry into the United States. Upon further observation, the agents noticed that one of the males was holding what appeared to be a handgun. As the agents approached the area, the subjects retreated back into Mexico. The agents notified and coordinated with Mexican law enforcement agencies in order to apprehend the subjects.

Mexican Police officers promptly responded and were able to apprehend two juveniles. The officers determined that the gun was in-fact a replica of a .40 caliber Berretta pistol. The two juveniles were taken into custody by the Cuidad Juarez Municipal Police Department.

These types of incidents clearly depict a successful working relationship between law enforcement agencies on both sides of the border and further shows the interest that Mexican authorities have in protecting our mutual borders.

Though the weapon in this case was revealed to be a toy replica, it is indicative of the challenges that Border Patrol agents face on a routine basis, and speaks highly of the training and instruction provided to agents in matters that allow resolution with little or no incident.