DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Del Rio Sector rescued three, including a pregnant woman, June 21.
“Smugglers only view human beings as a commodity,” said Del Rio Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Doyle E. Amidon, Jr. “Their callous treatment is in line with the detestable nature of these criminals and their organizations. I am so proud of the diligence and valor of our agents here in Del Rio Sector. They work tirelessly to protect the lives of those they encounter, their communities, and this great nation.”
aliens abandoned by smugglers.
A failed smuggling attempt of three illegal aliens, left them ill-prepared to travel in the hot climate having only a partial gallon of water to share between them. Agents assigned to the Comstock Station started the search after investigating two vehicles, a Jeep Compass and Chevrolet pickup truck, revealed to be involved in a smuggling attempt to circumvent the Comstock Border Patrol checkpoint. Just before 4 a.m., the Jeep Compass transported three individuals from Del Rio and dropped them off just before the checkpoint on U.S. Highway 90. Alien smugglers often try this tactic in an attempt to avoid inspection. Comstock agents were alerted to the smuggling activity and later confirmed that the vehicle had dropped off three individuals, including a pregnant woman, to circumvent the checkpoint. They were to be picked up a few miles north of Comstock on Ranch Road 163. Agents from the Comstock Station discovered evidence of the three later that morning and began tracking the group, requesting CBP Air and Marine Operations helicopter support. Around 3 p.m., as the temperature approached 100 degrees, agents requested Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Search Trauma and Rescue Team (BORSTAR) to assist in the search. BORSTAR is a team of highly specialized Border Patrol agents who have been trained in search and rescue and other special operations. The agents of the Comstock Station and BORSTAR continued the search efforts well into the evening. At approximately 7 p.m., the illegal aliens were located and assessed by medically trained professionals. The aliens were in good condition despite being forced to share a one-gallon jug of water during their ordeal.
All illegal aliens were processed in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.