GREAT FALLS — Havre Sector Border Patrol agents, working with the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and the Cut Bank Police Department, arrested 19 Mexican citizens who were traveling in two SUVs on Sunday.
A press release from U.S. Customs & Border Protection says the arrests stemmed from a tip from a concerned citizen who noticed suspicious activity.
Border Patrol agents received the information and began to work with the the Sheriff's Office and Police Department to investigate the information.
The collaboration paid off, and the 19 people were arrested.
In a similar incident several weeks ago, two people who entered the country illegally were processed for violating federal immigration laws and turned over to Immigration & Customs Enforcement.
“These arrests are proof that everyday citizens can make a difference in our national security,” said Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Scott Good. “We appreciate and will continue to rely on our great citizens and law enforcement partners across Montana and in Canada to keep our communities safer.”
The Havre Sector covers 456 miles of international border, starting along the Montana-North Dakota border to the east and ending at the Continental Divide to the west. The sector consists of six stations (Plentywood, Scobey, Havre, Malta, St. Mary, and Sweetgrass). The stations are all within 45 minutes or less drive to the international border.
People can report suspicious activity to Border Patrol by calling 800 BE ALERT or (800) 232-5378. All calls will be answered and callers can choose to remain anonymous.
