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23 Arrested in Failed California Smuggling Attempt

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

CBP reports 23 illegal immigrants were arrested after a failed smuggling attempt off the California coast.
CBP intercepted a panga-style vessel near San Clemente Island.
The migrants were handed to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in San Diego.
San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock says panga boat landings have increased.
In 2021, ICE warned about rising use of these boats for smuggling migrants and drugs along Southern California.

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Story summary

CBP reports 23 illegal immigrants were arrested after a failed smuggling attempt off the California coast.
CBP intercepted a panga-style vessel near San Clemente Island.
The migrants were handed to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in San Diego.
San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock says panga boat landings have increased.
In 2021, ICE warned about rising use of these boats for smuggling migrants and drugs along Southern California.