WATCH: RCMP Arrest six illegal migrants at Manitoba border using thermal imaging

Manitoba RCMP arrested six individuals illegally crossing into Manitoba from the U.S. on January 14 using advanced thermal imaging technology to secure the border.

At approximately 7:30 pm CST, an RCMP patrol plane equipped with heat-sensing cameras detected the illegal migrants about 15 kilometres east of Emerson.

Officers on the ground were directed to the area, where the migrants had fled into a wooded zone.

All six illegal migrants were arrested without incident and handed over to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

There was one Jordanian, three Sudanese, one Chadian, and one Mauritanian in the group.

Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland, RCMP Northwest Region commander, emphasized the force’s commitment to border security. 

“We have the partnerships, technology, and resources to stop illegal activity,” said Moreland, 

Moreland pointed out the collaboration happening between with U.S. and provincial agencies.  

The arrest marked the latest use of thermal imaging aircraft, which scan for heat signatures along the Canada-U.S. border. 

RCMP stressed the sharing of intelligence with their U.S. counterparts to coordinate the responses.  

Since 2023, the RCMP has expanded aerial surveillance to curb irregular crossings, particularly in the Prairie provinces. 

Manitoba’s border near Emerson has seen increased patrols amid rising illegal migration attempts.

Moreland warned against crossing illegally.

“Our message is clear. There is no safe, secret path into Canada,” said Moreland.

The illegal migrants face deportation proceedings under Canadian immigration law.  

The RCMP reaffirmed its focus on deploying technology and cross-border partnerships to address the illegal migrant problem, calling the Manitoba incident proof of their “layered enforcement strategy.”