Migrant Deaths

One has to wonder whether the Border Patrol is really serious in its announced efforts to stem the flood of illegal immigrants at our southern border.

I-5 at San Ysidro is a natural barrier to the undocumented who have managed to slip over the border, as exemplified by those injured or killed trying to cross its high-speed lanes. Although the state of California has erected signs and lights designed to warn motorists of the hazard posed by numerous persons crossing on foot, the Border Patrol seems unaware of the great number of people who assemble on and near the freeway.

Early last Sunday morning, after crossing the border, we proceeded north on I-5. Within two miles of the border we encountered no less than 200 individuals assembled on the center divider of the highway, waiting, we assume, to be picked up for the trip farther north. Strangely, the Border Patrol was distinguished by its absence.

Instead of simply patrolling the back roads and trails at the border and tying up traffic at the San Clemente check point, why don’t they charter a bus and pick up these people waiting on the highway at San Ysidro, if they are truly dedicated to stemming the flow?

HOWARD J. SCOTT

Baja California