Ep 2. Episode 2
In episode 2 of Border Security: America's Front Line, viewers are taken back to the US-Mexico border where customs and border protection (CBP) officers work tirelessly to keep America's borders safe and secure. This episode is a continuation of the previous one, exploring the various methods and technologies used by the CBP to detect and prevent illegal activities such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal immigration.
The episode begins with officers at the San Ysidro port of entry in California, the busiest land border crossing in the world. Officers use an x-ray machine to scan cars and trucks crossing the border, looking for suspicious items such as drugs, weapons, or cash. They also interview drivers to determine the purpose of their visit and ensure they have the proper documentation. In one case, officers discover a large amount of methamphetamine hidden inside a car's gas tank, leading to the arrest of the two occupants.
Next, viewers are shown the use of a drone by CBP officers to survey the border and detect illegal activities. The drone allows officers to access areas that are otherwise difficult to reach and provides them with real-time footage to monitor activity along the border. In one instance, the drone detects a group of individuals crossing the border illegally, prompting officers to apprehend them and process them for deportation.
The episode then shifts to a different area along the border in Arizona, where officers use night vision goggles to monitor the border during nighttime hours. Officers explain that illegal activity often occurs under the cover of darkness, making it crucial to have technology that allows them to see in the dark. Several cases are shown where officers are able to detect and intercept individuals attempting to cross the border illegally.
In another segment, viewers are taken to a remote area of the border where drugs are often smuggled using backpacks. Officers explain that this method is often used by drug cartels as it allows them to avoid detection from x-ray machines. CBP officers use horses to patrol these remote areas, searching for any signs of suspicious activity. In one case, officers discover a group of individuals carrying heavy backpacks of what is later determined to be marijuana.
The episode also highlights the use of K-9 units by CBP officers in detecting narcotics and other contraband. Officers explain that dogs have a strong sense of smell and can detect even small amounts of drugs hidden in vehicles or luggage. In one instance, officers use a K-9 unit to search a vehicle, ultimately leading to the discovery of cocaine hidden in a panel of the car.
Throughout the episode, viewers are shown the different strategies and technologies used by CBP officers to ensure the safety and security of America's borders. The show emphasizes that the work of CBP officers is crucial in preventing illegal activities and maintaining the integrity of the nation's borders.
Overall, episode 2 of Border Security: America's Front Line provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily work of CBP officers and the various challenges they must overcome to keep America's borders secure. The use of technology such as drones, x-ray machines, and night vision goggles demonstrates the innovative strategies used by officers to detect and prevent illegal activities. The show's focus on the human element of the CBP highlights the dedication and hard work of the officers working on the front lines of the border.
