LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents stopped a human smuggling attempt at the Interstate Highway 35 checkpoint north of Laredo, Texas, involving a tractor-trailer.
The incident occurred during the early morning of April 4, when a tractor-trailer approached the primary inspection lanes. After an immigration inspection of the driver, a consensual non-intrusive scan of the vehicle was conducted. The scan revealed several anomalies within the trailer and a subsequent search resulted in over 70 undocumented individuals found inside the trailer to include several unaccompanied children. The individuals were identified as being from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. All subjects including the driver were medically screened and provided with personal protective equipment. They were taken into custody to be processed accordingly. This case was turned over to HSI for further investigation.
Despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, smugglers continue to endanger the lives of individuals they exploit and the health and safety of our Nation. It is the mission of U.S. Border Patrol agents to protect the American people, safeguard our borders, and enhance the Nation’s economic prosperity. Laredo Sector agents’ Core Values are to maintain Vigilance as they provide Service with Integrity.
Help us take a stand against criminal smuggling organizations by reporting suspicious activity to the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994.