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Border Patrol Prevents a Human Smuggling Attempt

Release Date
Tue, 06/16/2020

LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents at the Interstate 35 (I-35) Border Patrol checkpoint north of Laredo prevented a human smuggling attempt.

The incident occurred late in the evening of June 15, when a white tractor hauling a white trailer approached the I-35 checkpoint and a Service canine alerted to the trailer. 

Border Patrol agents discovered 24 aliens within a tractor trailer at the Interstate 35 checkpoint
Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents discovered 24
undocumented aliens in a tractor trailer at the Interstate
35 checkpoint.

A search of the trailer led agents to discover 24 individuals hidden inside, all illegally present in the United States from the countries of Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras; one was later determined to be a convicted felon.  The individuals and the driver, a U.S. citizen, were taken into custody pending investigation.  The vehicle was seized by U.S. Border Patrol.

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. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021