SANTA BARBARA COUNTY – Boats trafficking people and drugs to the Central Coast are showing up more often and law enforcement believe it's becoming an issue.
Since August, three Panga boats have been found abandoned off the South Coast.
On Wednesday, February 1, a boat was seen floating more than 200 yards off shore in Montecito. No one was aboard but several life vests were found on shore suggesting about 20 people may have been on that boat.
In August 31, a boat was found near Gaviota. It was empty but Sheriff's Deputies found evidence it was used for drug trafficking.
On January 2, another Panga boat was found abandoned near Refugio Road and that is also thought to be used to bring drugs into the area.
Panga boats are around 20 to 30 feet long. They are commonly used by fishermen in developing countries and have become popular with smugglers bringing people and drugs from Mexico to the United States.
The boats have shown up throughout the California coastline and as far North as San Francisco.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department is sending out patrols to the areas known for the boats and also rely on citizens to notify them if they see anything unusual.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement toll-free 24-hour tip line: 1-866-DHS-2ICE.
