In an inspection of seven “forward operating bases” operated by Customs and Border Protection along the Southwest border, auditors have identified security issues such as inadequate fencing and inoperable security cameras, as well as health concerns such as difficulty in obtaining safe drinking water.
The bases are permanent facilities in forward or remote locations designed to reduce the time needed to respond to indications of illegal activity. Officers are temporarily assigned to them, typically for seven-day stretches in which they work eight hours and must remain there the rest of the time. The bases are to be equipped with sleeping quarters, showers, restrooms, a full kitchen, a common area with television and a fitness room.
In one of the bases reviewed, living conditions were deemed “inadequate” with problems including malfunctioning air conditioning and the lack of separate work, eating, break and exercise areas. Other issues raised in the reviews included tripping and other hazards and poor conditions of roads leading to the bases.
“In addition, we determined the CBP is not performing all required forward operating base inspections or adequately documenting maintenance and repairs. Without regular inspections and timely maintenance and repairs, CBP cannot ensure it will continue to provide adequate security, safety and living conditions for its personnel working at these remote facilities,” it said.
Management is taking some remedial steps, the report said, although adding that several of the recommendations remain open or unaddressed.
