LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Border Patrol agents intercepted two human smuggling attempt on Sunday.
The first incident occurred during the early morning of July 26, when a box truck entered the Interstate 35 (I-35) checkpoint and a Service canine alerted. During a search of the vehicle’s cargo area, agents discovered five individuals hiding inside several pieces of furniture. The individuals were from the country of Mexico and in the United States illegally. The driver, a U.S. Citizen, along with the individuals were taken into custody pending further investigation.
The second incident occurred that evening, when agents from the Freer Station conducted a vehicle stop on a semi-truck on Farm-to-Market Road 2050, about five miles south of the Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. Highway 59. During an immigration inspection of the driver, agents discovered 19 individuals hidden in the sleeper compartment. The individuals, which included two juveniles, were all Mexican citizens and in the country illegally. The individuals along with the driver, a U.S. citizen, were taken into custody pending investigation. U.S. Border Patrol seized the vehicle.
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. 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.
