LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents at the Interstate 35 (I-35) Border Patrol checkpoint north of Laredo intercepted another sizable human smuggling event that utilized a commercial vehicle.
The incident occurred on the morning of June 29, when a white tractor hauling a white trailer approached the I-35 checkpoint and a Service canine alerted. The tractor-trailer was referred to secondary inspection where a search of the sleeper cab revealed five individuals who appeared to be hiding. A search of the trailer revealed a further 24 individuals inside. A total of 29 people were determined to be in the United States illegally from the countries of Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. The case was turned over to special agents of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for prosecution. HSI seized both the tractor and trailer.
Despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing summer heat, smugglers continue to endanger the lives of individuals they exploit and the health and safety of our nation.
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.