In a recent escalation of tactics, smugglers along the U.S.-Mexico border have begun throwing metal spikes onto roadways to disable pursuing Border Patrol and ICE vehicles. These devices, often referred to as “caltrops,” are designed to puncture tires, thereby hindering law enforcement efforts.
According to Border Patrol reports, these incidents typically occur during high-speed chases, with individuals on the Mexican side of the border hurling the spikes onto paths they anticipate agents will follow. The primary objective appears to be to damage the vehicles, forcing agents to abandon pursuits and allowing smugglers to evade capture.
The use of such dangerous methods not only poses significant risks to law enforcement personnel but also endangers civilians who might inadvertently encounter these hazards. Border Patrol officials are urging the public to exercise caution in areas known for smuggling activities and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to authorities.
