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  4. Rio Grande Valley agents rescue 26 illegal aliens at checkpoint

Rio Grande Valley agents rescue 26 illegal aliens at checkpoint

Release Date
Tue, 11/14/2017

FALFURRIAS, Texas - U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a United States citizen after finding 26 illegal aliens concealed in a rental truck.

26 illegal aliens rescued by Falfurrias Border Patrol agents
26 illegal aliens rescued by Falfurrias
Border Patrol agents

On Friday evening, agents assigned to the Falfurrias Checkpoint were conducting immigration inspections when a rental truck driven by a United States citizen approached the primary inspection lane. As agents made contact with the driver, a K9 alerted to the cargo area of the trailer. Upon investigation, 26 illegal aliens were discovered concealed inside a modified compartment of the rental truck. All the subjects were offered medical attention but declined. The driver was arrested.

“It is truly disheartening to see ruthless smugglers continue to use tactics that recklessly jeopardize human life,” said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla, Jr. “We need to stand together and deliver the message that these immigrants are humans, not cargo.”

The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.

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 the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021