Border Patrol’s Tucson Sector Sees Surge: 1,600 Illegal Immigrants Detained in Just One Week

By Matthew Holloway |

On Tuesday, John R. Modlin, Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol Tucson Sector, announced the apprehension of three illegal immigrants west of Douglas, Arizona. This operation reflects a broader trend, with over 1,600 illegal immigrants captured in early December alone.

Details emerged via posts on social media platforms X and Facebook. As agents approached the group, one migrant fled, leaving behind a Guatemalan woman and her 5-year-old child. Utilizing a K9 unit, agents successfully apprehended a 17-year-old Mexican national, who was identified as a potential guide for the woman and child due to his camouflaged attire and specialized footwear intended to mask his tracks.

Modlin’s office reported that this incident marks the third significant interception in just three days. On December 1, agents captured five illegal immigrants from Guatemala and Mexico near SR-90. In a separate incident that same day, five more migrants were arrested after their driver failed to stop when signaled by agents on SR-85. The migrants attempted to escape into the desert but were quickly apprehended.

Highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by migrants, Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens shared a dramatic rescue operation on December 9. Agents, supported by local sheriff’s air assistance, rescued an injured migrant in the rugged Arizona mountains. The BORSTAR team offered critical medical care before airlifting the individual to safety, showcasing the risks involved in such perilous journeys.

As of December 6, Modlin reported that the Tucson Sector made a total of 1,600 apprehensions within the week. This resulted in 171 federal criminal cases and numerous seizures, including 19 pounds of methamphetamine, 9 pounds of cocaine, and 6.7 pounds of heroin, along with $2,032 in cash. Furthermore, agents intervened in 18 human smuggling incidents and seven narcotics events, while also performing six rescues during this period.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.