Border Patrol arrests 32 illegal aliens, smuggler in Texas busts

U.S. Border Patrol agents, in two separate actions, dismantled an alien smuggling stash house operation and intercepted a semi-truck carrying illegal aliens in just the last 24 hours resulting in the arrest of 32 illegal immigrants and one U.S. citizen.

On July 17, 2018, Hebbronville agents assigned to the checkpoint located on Farm to Market Road 1017 intercepted a smuggling attempt of 20 illegal aliens.  The incident occurred after the driver of the tractor-trailer presented himself for inspection.  Subsequently, a service canine alerted agents to the presence of concealed humans and/or narcotics.

Upon further inspection, Border Patrol agents discovered 20 illegal aliens inside the trailer.  The illegal aliens were found in good health and were identified as being from the countries of Mexico, El Salvador, and Honduras.  The driver, a United States citizen, was arrested.  All subjects were processed accordingly.

“CBP not only strives to protect the American people from all dangers, but to prevent deaths and stop unscrupulous smugglers who put immigrants lives at risk.  This interdiction is a clear representation of our commitment to safeguard those values,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.

Today, Border Patrol agents, working in collaboration with the Hidalgo County Constables Office, Precinct 4, identified a suspected stash house operating out of a residence in Mission, Texas. Agents located 12 illegal aliens inside the residence, which included one Mexican national and eleven Guatemalan nationals.

All subjects will be processed accordingly. The case is being referred for prosecution.

The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 1-800-343-1994.