The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and the San Diego County District Attorney (DA) — in partnership with elected officials, and several law enforcement and government agencies — launched a strategic educational campaign and stepped-up law enforcement presence to combat wildcatting at MTS transit centers at the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry and Otay Mesa Land Port of Entry.

Wildcatters are unregulated and unpermitted ridesharing services who can be aggressive with their tactics to secure rides. Oftentimes, wildcatters harass taxicab drivers, vandalize public property, and do not undergo safety screenings.

Issues Caused By Wildcatters

Without proper oversight, unregulated transportation services may not carry enough insurance to protect passengers in case of an accident. 

Wildcatters do not undergo criminal background checks, do not receive safety training, and do not perform vehicle safety inspections. This lack of oversight can result in unsafe rides, price gouging, and limited protection for riders in the case of an accident.

“Accepting rides from un-permitted drivers who operate illegally and are not vetted can put people at risk of becoming the victim of crimes like recruitment for human trafficking, fraud, and overcharging,” said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. “Protecting the safety of San Diego County residents, commuters, and others who cross the border falls squarely in our mission of preventing crime. We are also working closely with our law enforcement and transportation partners to hold those who are not authorized to offer this type of service accountable for their crimes.”

Wildcatters have been present in San Ysidro for decades, but they are now increasing in the Otay Mesa area and outside the new PedWest pedestrian crossing in San Ysidro due to cross-border passenger demand and the increase of new employers.

Knowing Who is A Safe Operator

While there are many transportation options once people enter the U.S. from the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa border crossings, it’s important for travelers to know which are safe and which are illegal and potentially dangerous.

The first step in this partnership between MTS and the DA’s office is increasing awareness with travelers about the dangers and illegal activity of wildcatting. The agencies are increasing signage in and around the transit centers. 

Additionally, MTS is working with local law enforcement to improve visibility and strengthen their presence with heightened patrols near the border. The agencies will also post notices at San Ysidro and Otay Mesa pedestrian crossings in cooperation with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

To ensure passengers have safe, reliable, and reasonable travel accommodations, MTS’s For-Hire Vehicle Administration licenses and oversees taxicabs, non-emergency medical transports, charter vehicles, etc.

Pedestrians crossing the border can choose from MTS buses and trolleys and other legitimate transportation options, including taxicabs and privatized charter buses.