(Tuesday, October 19, 2010)
Atlanta - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport continue to intercept individuals attempting to enter the U.S. with the use of fraudulent documentation.
Since August, CBP officers in Atlanta have identified sixteen individuals utilizing altered documents or valid documents with individuals posing as imposters attempting entry to the U.S.
This past weekend, a 35-year-old male arriving from Lagos, Nigeria, was identified as an imposter, attempting to utilize a legitimately issued Canadian passport stating his intent was to transit to Canada via the U.S.
“Our officers are vigilant and highly trained in the detection of counterfeit documents. This interception is an example of how CBP works daily to prevent unauthorized entry into the United States,” said Mike Denning, acting CBP Atlanta port director.
Atlanta CBP officers have identified travelers from Europe, Mexico, Central and South America, and Asia attempting to utilize both fraudulent and illegally obtained genuine documentation in their efforts to enter the U.S. Penalties for such actions range from removal proceedings to prosecution and fines.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
