There’s growing concern human smuggling operations have turned to the water, landing in ritzy California coastal communities like Newport Beach with complex plans to bring illegal migrants into unassuming neighborhoods.
An initial search of the boat revealed indicators the vessel was being used for human smuggling.
Federal officials said human traffickers in Mexico commonly work with organized crime syndicates to move illegal migrants into the US.
Newport Beach City Council member Erik Weigand said the steady traffic of pleasure boats in Newport Harbor may be used as cover for smugglers.
Weigand is seeking support for a project to install security cameras at the mouth of Newport Harbor to protect the local waterway from smugglers.