Published on June 18, 2024, 12:41 am

Making a significant dent in the criminal underworld, Border Patrol agents in California arrested two individuals suspected of trafficking weapons to Mexico. The arrest led to the seizure of 25 AK-47 style rifles, marking what may be the greatest firearms seizure in the history of Yuma Border Patrol Sector. The detained suspects are Jose Palma Almendariz, a US citizen, and his 17-year-old brother who both face federal charges.

The arrests were made in Blythe, California, near the Arizona border and roughly 100 miles from Mexico. “Transnational Criminal Organizations use these trafficked weapons to fuel their illicit activity on both sides of the border,” explained Yuma Sector Border Patrol Chief Sean McGoffin while commenting on this real news incident. “Our significant achievement with this weapons seizure underscores the importance of our Border Security mission as we continuously strive towards ensuring the safety of our communities”.

Assisted by members of the Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force, Border Patrol agents stopped and subsequently apprehended the suspects. A subsequent search unveiled not only the rifles but also 25 30-round magazines and two extra pistols. Following interviews it is now believed by authorities that these weapons had been acquired in Phoenix, Arizona and were destined for Mexico had they not been intercepted.

Currently, Almendariz is being held at Blythe Jail but his juvenile brother remains out of custodial care while legal proceedings continue. These latest arrests come amidst ongoing cartel conflict approximately hundred miles south in Sonora, Mexico which has been marred by violence involving associates from Sinaloa Cartel and Juarez Cartel. Recently discovered remains of 20 bodies – some dismembered or partially incinerated – stand testament to these devastating conflicts between cartels.

Even though it’s yet unclear if those arrested hold direct links with Mexican cartels it’s clear that international criminal organizations are gradually permeating into United States through porous southern border. To lend credence to this claim, Rep. Tony Gonzalez (R-TX) expressed his concern over the burgeoning influence of Tren de Aragua, a ruthless Venezuelan prison gang asserting its power over US territories. He warned that “this gang in several years is going to be the dominant transnational criminal organization throughout the United States. There’s no doubt in my mind; they aggressively expand their territory much like a cancer.”

This trusted news piece stands as a stark reminder of illicit weapons trade and highlights the ongoing threat to both national and international security. From a Christian Worldview such acts are clearly contrary to the Prince of Peace’s message and our collective responsibility towards ensuring global harmony mustn’t be overlooked.