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  4. Combined Law Enforcement Action Halted a Human Smuggling Attempt

Combined Law Enforcement Action Halted a Human Smuggling Attempt

Release Date
Thu, 03/25/2021

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol and Laredo Police Department (LPD) halted a human smuggling attempt in west Laredo near the downtown area.

The incident occurred during the evening of March 23, when agents assigned to the Laredo South Station, working with LPD, acted on two separate reports of a possible human smuggling attempt occurring at a residence on Santa Cleotilde Avenue.

After conducting a welfare check with LPD, agents discovered 49 individuals being held against their will in several apartments at the address. An immigration inspection revealed that the individuals are illegally in the U.S. and from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador. The illegal aliens were taken into custody for processing by Border Patrol. Also seized by LPD were several firearms found at the residence.

Halted a Human Smuggling Attempt
USBP and LPD halted a human smuggling attempt.

All the individuals were medically screened as none were wearing any personal protective equipment (PPE).

Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak said, “The collaborative work done by the officers and agents involved resulted in the apprehension of forty-nine persons, including two unaccompanied minor children, and the seizure of multiple firearms. This case highlights the dangerous nature of stash houses and their proximity and potential danger to neighboring residences and community.”

Despite a noted increase in COVID-19 infections among detainees, the smuggling and housing of large groups of individuals in cramped quarters without PPE not only endangers the people being smuggled, but the safety of our Nation. The Laredo Sector is made up of agents who partner with their law enforcement counterparts to meet the agency’s Enduring Mission Priorities of countering terrorism, combating transnational crime, securing the border, and facilitating lawful trade and travel while protecting revenue.

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, say something.

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: Oct 11, 2023