by Garth Meyer
Nineteen Mexican migrants in a small boat were rescued in the ocean off Redondo Beach Aug. 20.
The panga-style vessel with engine failure was seen 18 miles from the coastline by a Good Samaritan who called in a report.
Coast Guard Station Los Angeles-Long Beach responded, sending a small-boat rescue crew, assisted by a helicopter, and the diverted Coast Guard Cutter “Blackfin.”
Baywatch Redondo launched two boats as well.
The helicopter crew first found the migrants, who said the engine failed two hours before.
“This case highlights the inherent risks posed to migrants attempting to enter the United States by sea and the dynamic nature of our operations,” said Coast Guard Capt. Ryan Manning, commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach.
Baywatch Redondo and the Coast Guard Rescue boat transferred the 19 adults (14 male, five female) to safety and the Blackfin towed the vessel to Coast Guard Base Los Angeles-Long Beach.
Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations agents processed the people on board.
“The Coast Guard and our local partners responded to a report of a vessel in distress and, after ensuring the safety of everyone involved, shifted to enforcing the nation’s immigration laws,” said Manning. ER
