San Diego, California – The U.S. Coast Guard gave members of the media a rare, first-hand look at how it intercepts vessels suspected of smuggling migrants, showcasing its aggressive interdiction tactics in a live-action simulation on San Diego Bay.
Originally planned for the open waters of the Pacific Ocean, the demonstration was moved closer to shore due to inclement weather and poor visibility. In the staged scenario, one boat pursued another as officers attempted to force compliance using sirens and flashing lights. When the suspect vessel refused to stop, officers escalated their response, firing pepper balls at a dummy driver named “Oscar.” Only after this use of force did the simulated smuggler yield, allowing officers to board and secure the vessel.
The demonstration highlighted the Coast Guard’s increased presence along the southern border. “We’ve essentially tripled the amount of Coast Guard assets on the southern border in the last two months,” said Peter Nelson, Officer in Charge of Coast Guard Station San Diego…