Arizona operation detains 52 undocumented, 36 truck drivers

Federal immigration authorities in Arizona have arrested 52 individuals living in the United States without legal permission, 36 of whom were working as commercial truck drivers. Approximately 30 of those drivers are Indian nationals, with the remaining six from Mexico, El Salvador, and Russia. The operation, conducted by the U.S. Border Patrol’s Yuma Sector from May 11 to 15, was part of a targeted enforcement initiative called Operation Checkmate.

Officials stated the operation was launched to enhance public safety by identifying and removing individuals without legal status who operate commercial motor vehicles. All 52 individuals are being processed for deportation under federal law. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, many of those detained possessed employment authorization documents issued during the current presidential administration, but officials said those documents are no longer valid.

Acting Chief Patrol Agent for the Yuma Sector, Dustin Caudle, said the operation reflects a commitment to safeguarding communities and roadways. He stated that agents are on patrol daily to identify such drivers and prevent potentially fatal crashes.