This Thursday, Mexican authorities implemented a new security filter at the international port of San Ysidro, in Tijuanawith the purpose of strengthening surveillance and detecting illicit activities in the vehicular flow towards the United States. This measure seeks to guarantee a safer and more agile crossingresponding to both citizen demands and operational needs on one of the busiest borders in the world.
The facility is strategically located located 55 meters from the dividing line on the Mexican side and is under the joint supervision of the Municipal Public Security Secretariat, the National Migration Institute (INM) and the National Guard. This effort is part of a collaborative initiative with the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which seeks to address specific problems identified in the border area.
Pedro Montejo Peterson, Secretary of Economic Advancement of Tijuana, explained that The filter is designed to intervene in a targeted manner in suspicious situations without hindering vehicle flow. He emphasized that this measure aims to prevent the crossing of vehicles that might potentially be linked to illicit activities, particularly on the Sentri line, known for allowing faster transit. According to the official, this point is critical as it could facilitate the filtration of vehicles involved in unwanted activities.
The mayor of Tijuana, Ismael Burgueño, highlighted that This initiative also seeks to provide peace of mind to users, especially during the holiday season, when border traffic usually increases considerably. He emphasized that the joint work with the security forces has a preventive nature, aimed at guaranteeing the protection of citizens and combating illegal practices, such as coyotaje.
During the first week of operation, the filter will be in the evaluation phase. Montejo Peterson stressed that the results will be analyzed to make adjustments and perfect the system, seeking to maximize its effectiveness and meet the stated objectives. Even though an immediate impact on the opening of more booths is not expected, the initial focus is to establish a functional and dynamic scheme based on constant feedback.
As part of the expansion plan, The installation of a second filter is contemplated in the coming weeks. This will be located in the general access lanes, 140 meters from the dividing line, while a third filter will be implemented at the Otay border port.This phased approach responds to citizen demands and the need to progressively improve border crossing conditions.
Montejo Peterson highlighted that user complaints and suggestions will be essential to adjust and optimize these measures. Through active listening, authorities will seek to refine procedures and respond to the needs of those who cross the border daily, marking a commitment to security and efficiency in this crucial binational region.
With details from EFE
What are the expected benefits of the new security filter at the San Ysidro international port for travelers?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Pedro Montejo Peterson, Secretary of Economic Advancement of Tijuana
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Montejo Peterson. This week, Tijuana has introduced a new security filter at the San Ysidro international port. can you explain the primary objectives of this new measure?
Pedro Montejo Peterson: Thank you for having me. The primary objectives of the new security filter at San Ysidro are to strengthen surveillance and enhance the detection of illicit activities in the vehicular flow towards the United States. It is designed to ensure a safer and more agile crossing,in response to both citizen demands and operational needs,especially given that this is one of the busiest borders in the world.
Time.news Editor: The location of the filter is quite strategic, only 55 meters from the border. How do the collaborative efforts with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) play into this initiative?
Pedro Montejo Peterson: Absolutely, the collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection is vital.This joint effort is aimed at addressing specific challenges identified in the border area. By working closely together,we can efficiently monitor the movement of vehicles and target suspicious situations without unnecessarily hindering the flow of legitimate traffic.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that the filter aims to intervene in a targeted manner, particularly in the SENTRI lane known for faster transit. What measures are being taken to prevent vehicles linked to illicit activities from crossing?
pedro Montejo Peterson: The filter is specifically designed to identify and prevent suspicious vehicles from crossing, particularly those that may be tied to illicit activities. By targeting the SENTRI line, we can enhance our ability to monitor potentially problematic traffic while facilitating quicker border crossings for those using the lane legitimately.
Time.news Editor: There’s an evaluation phase in the first week of operation. How will you ensure that the system can be adjusted based on its performance?
Pedro Montejo Peterson: We recognize the importance of adaptability in this initiative. The results from the evaluation phase will be closely analyzed,allowing us to make necessary adjustments quickly. Our goal is to establish a functional and dynamic system driven by constant feedback to meet our objectives effectively.
Time.news Editor: As traffic increases during the holiday season, how do you anticipate the new filter will positively impact users?
Pedro Montejo Peterson: We expect that the new filter will provide much-needed peace of mind to users, especially during peak traffic times such as the holiday season. the collaborative security efforts are not only about addressing crime but also about ensuring the safety and protection of all citizens as they cross the border.
Time.news Editor: What can you tell us about the plans for additional filters at the border and how they will enhance the overall security framework?
Pedro Montejo Peterson: We are in the planning stages for additional filters, with one set to be located in the general access lanes, about 140 meters from the dividing line, and another at the Otay border port. These phased implementations demonstrate our commitment to progressively improving crossing conditions while responding to citizen demands for safety and efficiency.
Time.news Editor: It’s encouraging to hear that user feedback is a priority.How do you plan to incorporate this feedback into the ongoing enhancements of the crossing procedures?
Pedro Montejo Peterson: User complaints and suggestions will be essential for optimizing our measures. Through active listening and engagement with the community, we aim to refine our procedures continuously and respond effectively to the needs of those who cross the border daily, making this collaborative effort a true commitment to security and efficiency.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Montejo Peterson, for sharing these insights. It’s clear that Tijuana is taking meaningful steps toward enhanced security and efficient border crossing for everyone involved.
Pedro Montejo Peterson: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important developments. Together, we can make the border a safer and more efficient crossing point for all users.