LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Border Patrol agents discovered 36 individuals inside a sealed tractor trailer during a failed human smuggling attempt at the Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 35 (I-35).
The incident occurred on the morning of April 30, when a white commercial tractor hauling a white trailer approached the I-35 checkpoint. After an immigration inspection of the driver, a non-intrusive scan of the tractor-trailer revealed several individuals being smuggled inside the trailer.
Agents cut the trailer seal and searched its interior. They discovered 36 individuals all illegally present in the United States, from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and Ecuador. All were evaluated by an Emergency Medical Technician at the time of encounter. None required immediate medical attention. The 36 individuals and the driver, a U.S. Citizen, were taken into custody pending further investigation.
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.
