The Coast Guard recently intercepted a small vessel carrying 10 individuals near Point Loma. The operation occurred on a Sunday morning, when the crew aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Benjamin Bottoms (WPC-1132) observed what was described as suspicious activity emanating from a 25-foot white Sea Ray boat, as first reported by the U.S. Coast Guard’s news service.
Following standard procedure, the Benjamin Bottoms sent a boarding team via a small boat to investigate, it was during this interdiction they discovered the 10 individuals aboard, all of whom declared themselves to be of Mexican nationality, the initial assumption of suspicious behavior appeared warranted for the maritime law enforcement agency which is often on the lookout for illegal migration attempts.
Assistance in the operation was provided by the Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) Los Angeles–Long Beach, ensuring the process was carried out efficiently and safely…