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  4. Border Patrol Agents Discover 20 Illegal Aliens Hidden in Semi-truck

Border Patrol Agents Discover 20 Illegal Aliens Hidden in Semi-truck

Release Date
Tue, 08/28/2018

LAREDO, Texas – Agents operating the Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate Highway (IH) 35 north of Laredo, Texas uncovered a smuggling attempt when they found 20 illegal aliens concealed in the sleeper compartment of a semi-tractor.

On August 27, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo North Station encountered a 2012 black Volvo tractor truck at the primary inspection lane.  The agent requested and was granted consent to search the interior of tractor.  Once the curtains covering the sleeper compartment were opened, 20 subjects were found concealed underneath some blankets and miscellaneous items. 

Border Patrol agents discovered 20 illegal aliens hidden within a tractor's sleeper compartment at the IH-35 checkpoint
Border Patrol agents discovered 20 illegal
aliens within the sleeper compartment of a
tractor at the Interstate 35 checkpoint.

The driver, a United States citizen, along with the illegal aliens, was placed under arrest.  After interviewing the subjects, agents determined they were citizens from the countries of Mexico, Brazil and Ecuador.  All of the individuals were evaluated and did not require medical attention.  The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol and the case was referred to Homeland Security Investigations.

To report suspicious activity such as drug and/or alien smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021