EL CAJON, Calif — San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a previously deported sex-offender who was in the United States illegally Monday.

On March 2, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Border Patrol agents patrolling Interstate 8 observed a suspicious vehicle traveling westbound. Agents stopped the vehicle near the intersection of Mollison and Lexington in El Cajon.

The vehicle was driven by a 41-year-old male U.S. citizen with a 26-year-old female U.S. citizen passenger. Agents also observed a man trying to hide in the back seat.

The individual in the back seat was identified as a 54-year-old Mexican national illegally present in the U.S.

The agents arrested the individuals in the vehicle and transported them to a nearby Border Patrol station for processing.

At the station, record checks revealed that the Mexican national was convicted in California for Felony Sexual Battery in 1991 and was subsequently removed from the U.S.

The Mexican national is being held in Federal custody pending charges for illegal re-entry after deportation. The driver and passenger face alien smuggling charges. The vehicle was seized by the U.S Border Patrol.

To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our Nation’s borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.