A recent "60 Minutes" investigation revealed a growing trend: migrants using TikTok to find and connect with smugglers facilitating illegal crossings of the U.S.-Canada border. These smugglers, some linked to the Sinaloa cartel, openly advertise their services on the platform, targeting individuals seeking entry into the United States.
The report featured interviews with migrants who detailed how they used TikTok to find smugglers and coordinate their journeys. One smuggler, claiming affiliation with the Sinaloa cartel, stated that increased border security measures, including those implemented during President Trump's administration, have not deterred their operations. He argued that the demand for illegal entry into the U.S. remains high, ensuring the continued viability of their smuggling business.
Law enforcement officials are struggling to keep pace with the evolving tactics of these smuggling networks. The use of social media platforms like TikTok provides smugglers with a readily accessible and largely unregulated platform to reach potential clients. This ease of communication, coupled with the vastness of the U.S.-Canada border, presents a significant challenge for border security agencies. Concerns remain about the exploitation and danger faced by migrants who entrust their lives to these criminal organizations.
TikTok Fuels Migrant Smuggling Across US-Canada Border
Migrants are using social media platforms like TikTok to connect with smugglers and cross the U.S.-Canada border illegally. A recent 60 Minutes report highlights how cartels are advertising their services to migrants seeking entry into the United States. Despite increased border security efforts, these smuggling operations persist, driven by demand and facilitated by social media. Experts are concerned about the safety of migrants and the ongoing challenge of controlling illegal border crossings.
Source: Read the original article at CBS