Human Smuggling Attempt Foiled
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
LAREDO (News Release) – Laredo North Station agents apprehended several individuals during a failed human smuggling attempt involving a commercial rental truck on Interstate 35 (I-35), north of Laredo Sector’s immigration checkpoint.
The event occurred during the mid-afternoon on June 13, when agents observed a U-Haul moving truck traveling north on the west access road near the 30 mile-marker of I-35. Agents initiated a vehicle stop and discovered 27 undocumented individuals in the un-ventilated cargo area of the moving truck. The temperature inside the cargo compartment was a sweltering 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
None of the individuals were wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). They were medically screened and provided PPE. The individuals were from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. They were all placed under arrest along with the driver and passenger, both U.S. citizens, pending further investigation.
“Though human smugglers may try different ways to attempt to avoid detection, our agents remain vigilant and committed to our border security and national security mission”, Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak said.