Santa Barbara County, CA -- The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to be on the lookout for Mexican smuggling boats that have been spotted recently off the coastline. As recently as yesterday morning, a “Panga” boat was discovered abandoned off the coast north of Refugio Beach. Although the boat was empty, there was evidence it was used for illicit drug trafficking. The boat was noticed during the early morning hours by off duty Sheriff’s Deputies commuting to work.
 
Panga boats are small open watercraft powered by one or more outboard motors. They are commonly used by fishermen in developing countries and have become increasingly popular with smugglers who are transporting, illegal immigrants, narcotics, or other contraband from Mexico to the United States.