18 migrants taken into custody after arriving in Pompano Beach
POMPANO BEACH - Eighteen migrants -- five from China and 13 from Ecuador -- and the boat operator smuggling them were taken into custody after they rode in a canal that separates Pompano Beach and Lighthouse Point on Tuesday morning, authorities said.
Pompano Beach Fire Rescue responded at 2400 NE 20th Ave., east of U.S. 1.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection said 18 migrants were taken into custody: five from China and 13 from Ecuador.
A group of migrants was dropped off in an canal and they later walked on foot to a nearby church, Pompano Beach Fire Rescue confirmed.
A neighbor in the area told CBS News Miami the boat was going fast in the canal and it hit a parked boat. She said there were a number of women and children.
Broward Sheriff's Office personnel also were on the scene.