LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35 north of Laredo, Texas uncovered a smuggling attempt when they discovered 81 illegal aliens concealed in a refrigerated trailer.
On November 9, the event unfolded when agents encountered a red tractor pulling a white refrigerated trailer, with one visible occupant. During the primary inspection of the occupant, it was established the tractor was displaying a stolen license plate and referred to secondary. At secondary, a service canine alerted to the odor of concealed humans and/or narcotics. Further inspection revealed 81 individuals locked in the refrigerated trailer displaying a fictitious seal. The smuggled aliens consisted of 67 males, 13 adult females and one juvenile female. The individuals were from the countries of Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador, Brazil, and Nicaragua. All individuals were illegally present in the United States.
The driver, a United States citizen, along with the illegal aliens were placed under arrest and processed accordingly. All of the individuals were evaluated and did not require medical attention.
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.