Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is introducing a new addition to its border enforcement toolkit: electric bikes. San Diego Sector agents will now be using electric dirt bikes to patrol around the border between San Diego and Tijuana.
Border Patrol spokesman Gerardo Gutierrez told Border Report that e-bikes are "very useful," particularly given the sector's varied terrain. "We have mountains and ocean areas where we need to respond quickly," he said. Gutierrez also highlighted features that make e-bikes appealing to law enforcement: "They're stealthy, lightweight, and quiet."
The bikes were acquired four years ago and are primarily being used by the agency's search, trauma and rescue units, per the outlet. Gutierrez said they were a valuable tool when rescuing migrants in hard to reach areas.
"It enhances our rescue capability — agents can get to an area faster, and then from there assess the situation, and if need be, get a helicopter or additional resources to be able to assist and help someone in need," Gutierrez said.
The agency also highlighted the environmental benefits of these lightweight vehicles, noting that the bikes produce "zero emissions" and help preserve flora in the areas they patrol.
Although the bikes are currently being introduced only in the San Diego Sector, the CBP spokesman indicated that other areas along the southern border might adopt them in the future.
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