Chinese national uses loophole in attempt to smuggle immigrants to US territory
A Chinese national, Zhongli Pang, has been sentenced to federal prison for attempting to exploit a little-known loophole to smuggle 12 illegal migrants to the U.S. territory of Guam. Pang, 36, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal immigrants and conspiracy to defraud the United States.
Pang’s scheme involved taking advantage of a visa waiver program that allowed Chinese visitors to travel to the Northern Mariana Islands without a visa. However, Pang and his co-conspirators planned to sail the migrants from Saipan to Guam, where a U.S. visa is required. The overcrowded vessel ran out of fuel during the 100-mile journey, prompting a rescue by the U.S. Coast Guard.
In response to the incident, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Lucy Cabral-DeArmas emphasized the agency’s commitment to preventing the illegal movement of aliens within the CNMI. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to safeguard U.S. territories from such illicit activities.
Pang was sentenced to three months in federal prison, along with 50 hours of community service. This case underscores the need for heightened vigilance in U.S. territories like Guam, where illegal immigration poses a significant threat. U.S. officials are taking steps to combat the flow of illegal immigrants through these regions.
In 2023, HSI launched the Mariana Islands Border Enforcement Security Task Force to address security threats originating from the islands. Given the proximity of the Mariana Islands and Guam to Asia, they serve as potential entry points for criminals. Enhanced enforcement efforts are aimed at apprehending individuals attempting to evade detection and ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
U.S. Attorney Shawn Anderson emphasized the risks associated with illegal immigration, highlighting the potential for imprisonment and immigration penalties. He urged Chinese nationals to adhere to the CNMI’s parole program and return to China as agreed upon entry to Saipan. The collaboration between DHS and other agencies is vital in safeguarding U.S. territories and maintaining the integrity of immigration laws.
The case involving Zhongli Pang serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by illegal immigration and the importance of robust enforcement measures. Efforts to combat illegal activity in U.S. territories are essential for ensuring the safety and security of communities.
