LAREDO, TEXAS – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate 35 (I-35) checkpoint stopped a human smuggling attempt north of Laredo.
The incident occurred during the early morning of August 29, when a tractor-trailer approached the I-35 checkpoint and a Service canine alerted to the vehicle.
In secondary, a search of the vehicle led agents to discover 51 individuals inside the trailer and one individual hidden inside the sleeper area of the tractor. None had any personal protective equipment (PPE) and were quickly medically evaluated. All 52 individuals were illegally present in the United States and from the countries of Mexico, Honduras, Ecuador, and Guatemala. The driver, a Mexican national, was also taken into custody pending investigation. The case was turned over to Special Agents of Homeland Security Investigations. U.S. Border Patrol seized the tractor-trailer.
Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak said, “This case represents the latest example of smugglers putting human lives at risk for profit. Our agents continue to save lives by stopping human smuggling and the potential spread of COVID-19.”
Despite the threat of the global pandemic and a noted increase in COVID-19 infections among detainees, smugglers continue to endanger the lives of individuals they exploit by placing them in compromising, enclosed places without regard to high temperatures, PPE, or means of escape. The Laredo Sector Border Patrol is committed to the Mission of the agency to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders and enhancing the Nation’s economic prosperity.
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. If you see something, please say something. You can also follow us on our social media platforms on Twitter and Instagram @usbpchieflrt and @usbpdepchieflrt and on Facebook at US Border Patrol Laredo Sector.