Authorities have arrested 18 individuals involved in a Yuma-based human smuggling ring, highlighting the persistent border security crisis facing the nation.
Carlos Moreno-Serrano, 24, has been identified as the leader of the group, which operated under the smuggling organization known as La Mesa. The group’s activities were linked to the criminal cartel Los Rusos, facilitating the illegal entry of migrants across the U.S.-Mexico border.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, La Mesa smuggled hundreds of illegal immigrants into the country, operating with violence, threats, and intimidation on both sides of the border. Their tactics included kidnapping and assaults against their own members as a form of retribution.
The indictments brought against these 18 individuals, charged with conspiracy to harbor and transport illegal aliens for profit, reflect the growing danger posed by criminal organizations exploiting our immigration system.
If convicted, each defendant faces up to 10 years in prison and fines of $250,000 per charge. This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger border enforcement and immigration reform to safeguard American communities.
