Conversations across Rocky Point early last Friday morning focused on comments regarding security activity near the Lukeville/Sonoyta border. This was, as reported later by the Associated Press, part of a U.S.-Mexico law enforcement operation dubbed “Diablo Express” to combat illegal activity.
Various travelers heading North from Rocky Point to the U.S. that morning noted while both U.S. and Mexico border ports were open, vehicles heading South were halted on the U.S. side for a short period of time. Calls to both the U.S. and Mexico ports of entry/customs confirmed the border crossings were open and those heading South were soon able to safely make their way to our shores.
Though no official statement has been released, when contacted by phone for comment, Sonoyta Mayor Heriberto Serrano remarked the early morning operation itself came as a surprise to the community, adding it was believed the focus was on an area east of town known as “Desierto de Sonora”.
Gillian M. Christensen, spokeswoman for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, confirmed to the Associated Press ICE was assisting Mexican authorities in the operation in and around Sonoyta on Friday.
The Lukeville/Sonoyta border crossing is open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight and individual offices may be reached at:
Lukeville Port of Entry (520) 387-5671
Sonoyta Aduana (Customs) [when dialing from US 011-52] 651-512-3013