LAREDO, TEXAS – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo North Station received a call for assistance from Laredo Police Department (LPD) that saved numerous lives in a human smuggling attempt in Laredo.
The incident occurred just past midnight on November 6, when agents responded to a local business near Mines Road to assist LPD in investigating a suspicious tractor-trailer parked on the side of the street in front of the business establishment.
As LPD officers approached the abandoned trailer, they heard noises coming from inside the trailer. Officers broke the seal of the locked door of the trailer and discovered numerous people inside who had no means of escape. Law enforcement personnel helped the individuals exit the trailer. Agents distributed personal protective equipment to all individuals, and subsequent medical screenings found all individuals to be in good health. All rescued individuals were determined to be illegally in the United States from the countries of Mexico and Guatemala. The U.S. Border Patrol took them into custody and seized the tractor-trailer.
“Strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies keeps our community safe and saves lives. I commend these Laredo Police Department officers for their quick response and diligence in locating this vehicle and helping stop another dangerous human smuggling case,” said Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak.
This callous and dangerous act is another example of the lack of regard human smugglers have for those they exploit for profit.
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.
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