LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Border Patrol agents working at the U.S. Highway 59 (US-59) checkpoint prevented a human smuggling attempt near Freer.
The event occurred during the early morning of June 27, when a white box truck entered the US-59 checkpoint. During an immigration inspection of the driver, consent was granted to inspect the cargo area. Upon inspection, agents discovered 22 individuals, all in the country illegally and from the countries of Mexico and Honduras. They were taken into custody along with the driver, a U.S. citizen. The case was turned over to Special Agents of Homeland Security Investigations.
Despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, smugglers continue to endanger the lives of individuals they exploit and the health and safety of our Nation. U.S. Border Patrol agents strive to prevent the flow of illegal immigration and slow the spread of COVID-19.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.