Two Chinese nationals were detained by Surrey RCMP New Year’s Day following an alleged border-jumping incident near Peace Arch Park.
Police say they were alerted to the two men – reportedly walking into Canada without passing customs – by U.S. Border Patrol, which had been shadowing the pair on the U.S. side. Intercepted by officers in the 17000-block of 0 Avenue shortly after 1:30 p.m., the men appeared to be Chinese citizens.
The men were booked into cells and then turned over to the Canada Border Services Agency.
Such incidents of people trying to sneak into the country occur “just about every day,” according to Cpl. Drew Grainger.
Jeffrey Jones, with U.S. Border Patrol, doesn’t have statistics on border runners, but said the joint effort is appreciated.
"We value that partnership," Jones said. "Anytime we see northbound activity, we give RCMP a call."