Border agents bust migrant sneaking into California in most unlikely of places

US Customs and Border Protection agents have busted an illegal immigrant trying to sneak into the US inside a gas tank.

Officials at the San Ysidro port of entry in California made the unusual discovery on February 27 when a canine team realized someone was inside an alleged smuggler’s 2005 GMC SUV.

The 20-year-old driver was then sent to a secondary inspection where the person was found hidden inside a built-in compartment in the tank.

A picture of the crazy discovery showed the person wedged into the tiny space next to parts of the underside of the SUV.

The Mexican national sustained serious burns and had to be taken to a nearby hospital for treatment following the smuggling attempt.

“This case underscores the dangerous and inhumane tactics employed by smugglers who prioritize profit over human lives,” said San Ysidro Port Director Mariza Marin. 

“Thanks to the vigilance and professionalism of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, this individual was located and removed from a life-threatening situation, subsequently receiving the medical attention they needed. CBP remains committed to disrupting smuggling operations that endanger the public.”

The driver was arrested and booked into the Metropolitan Correctional Center in San Diego where he awaits charges.

The smuggling attempt is just the latest CBP officials have had to deal with as illegal immigrants continue to try and break into the country.

In February, US Border Patrol pursued a panga boat packed with illegal migrants off the coast of San Diego.

Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations shared the incredible footage of agents chasing the vessel and deploying multiple warning rounds near San Clemente Island on Feb. 2.

Border Patrol in California later confirmed 12 people were detained, including three minors and one aged just 11.

Maritime migrant detections nearly doubled in 2021 to 14,500 incidents, though funding for these missions has remained stagnant at around $1.2billion, the Migration Policy Institute reports.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters