LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents intercepted a sizable human smuggling attempt at the Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. Highway 83 northwest of Laredo.
The incident occurred during the early morning hours of August 5, when a box truck approached the checkpoint. During an immigration inspection of the driver, a Service canine alerted.
A subsequent search of the cargo area led agents to discover 27 individuals concealed inside, all illegally present in the United States from the country of Mexico. The individuals, along with the driver, a U.S. citizen, were arrested pending further investigation by Special Agents of Homeland Security Investigations. The 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.