Two Indian nationals were arrested by US Border Patrol agents for illegally crossing into the United States from Canada near Bridgewater, Maine. The arrests mark a rare instance of Indian citizens being apprehended in the region, with only 15 such cases recorded in the past three fiscal years.
The individuals were detained by agents from the Houlton Sector of the US Border Patrol. According to officials, the two crossed the international boundary on foot and were quickly intercepted. They now face prosecution under 8 US Code 1325, which deals with improper entry by aliens and will also be subject to removal proceedings, potentially leading to their deportation.
Illegal border crossings in Maine are uncommon compared to the southern US border. The apprehension of Indian nationals in particular remains minimal in the region. US Border Patrol officials emphasise continued vigilance.
“While the US Border Patrol is experiencing record-breaking low numbers of illegal crossings, some individuals still attempt to violate our laws. If you cross our borders illegally, you will be apprehended, prosecuted, and deported,” said Craig Shepley, Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the Houlton Sector.
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The agency has recently increased manpower in Maine, hiring more agents to enhance surveillance and border protection efforts in line with broader immigration enforcement goals under the Trump administration.
Voluntary Departure Program Introduced
In addition to strict enforcement, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has introduced a new voluntary departure program for individuals illegally present in the country. This incentivised initiative allows eligible individuals to return to their home country, or another that will accept them, without the threat of detention.
Participants can register their intention to leave using the CBP One mobile app, which helps them access travel assistance, document support, and temporary protection from detention. As a further incentive, those who complete their departure through the app are eligible to receive a USD 1,000 stipend.