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STATEMENT BY ATTORNEY GENERAL JANET RENO REGARDING

"The Department of Justice is committed to enforcing the rule of law along the border. I am deeply concerned about recent incidents along the Arizona-Mexico border in which private individuals have detained Mexican immigrants. The government of Mexico has shared its concerns about these incidents as well. We have informed them of the steps we are taking, and have asked for their assistance in preventing illegal migration and in breaking up alien smuggling rings. We have not offered to assist the Mexican government in any litigation they may bring.

"The job of enforcing federal and state laws is best left to trained law enforcement personnel. We are not aware of any violations of federal law to date, but we will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate steps. We also will continue working with local and state law enforcement officials who are assessing the conduct on a case-by-case basis.

"Finally, we are working to address the root cause of the problem -- the increasing incidence of illegal migration and smuggling through the area. The Border Patrol has strengthened ranch patrol units in Douglas, AZ to help stop the flow of illegal immigrants across ranches in that area. In addition, INS is in the process of deploying additional personnel, equipment and technology to the area.

"I recognize the concerns of the Arizona residents who feel overwhelmed by the flow of illegal migrant traffic, but I urge them not to try and take the law into their own hands. It is important that local residents contact the Border Patrol rather than risk their own safety by confronting persons whom they suspect to be illegal migrants or smugglers.

"If we all work together, we can uphold the rule of law along the border and make every community safer."

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