Coast Guard Intercepts 6 Vessels, Apprehends 82 Suspected Migrants
The U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security partner agencies interdict a suspected maritime smuggling vessel during coordinated operations south of San Clemente Island Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. (U.S. Coast Guard/TNS)
The San Diego Union-Tribune | By Alexandra Mendoza
Published February 25, 2026 at 8:40am ET
SAN DIEGO — Six vessels suspected of maritime smuggling and transporting a total of 82 migrants were intercepted in separate incidents over the weekend, U.S. Coast Guard officials said Tuesday.
Five vessels were intercepted within a 90-minute span south of San Clemente Island on Saturday, officials said. A sixth vessel was interdicted near Sunset Cliffs the next day.
The Coast Guard, along with partner agencies of the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Navy, coordinated the operations at sea and in the air.
The first reports were received around 12:30 p.m. Saturday regarding three suspected smuggling vessels that were traveling northbound from Mexican waters. The vessels were described as “20-to-25-foot cuddy cabin-style boats carrying fishing gear and fuel barrels onboard,” according to a news release.
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2026/02/25/coast-guard-intercepts-6-vessels-apprehends-82-suspected-migrants.html
