Hundreds More Illegal Aliens Caught Invading South Texas Over the Weekend

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents stopped two alleged human smuggling attempts at the Interstate 35 checkpoint, resulting in the apprehension of over 160 individuals over the weekend.

 The first incident occurred during the evening of Jan. 14, when Laredo North Station agents encountered a tractor-trailer at the primary inspection lanes.  Further inspection of the big rig resulted in agents finding almost 100 illegal aliens.

 The second event was found the following day at the same checkpoint.  Agents found almost 70 illegals inside the tractor-trailer after further inspection.

The apprehended individuals were not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) when found.  The individuals were provided PPE and were medically screened before being processed accordingly.

In addition, Falfurrias Border Patrol Station (FLF) agents interdicted two migrant smuggling events in tractor trailers at the Falfurrias Border Patrol Checkpoint.

On Jan. 17, at approximately 4:00 p.m., a Freightliner truck hauling a trailer arrived at the Falfurrias Border Patrol Checkpoint for inspection. The commercial vehicle was referred to the secondary inspection area following a K9 alert.

A search of the trailer revealed six illegal immigrants from Mexico, to include four children between the ages of 8–15 years old, were found laying on the floor between stacked lumber.  The trailer doors were closed and the tarp was strapped down preventing any means of escape in the event of an emergency. Additionally, the temperature inside the cargo area was 123.3 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of encounter. The driver and unlawfully present aliens were placed under arrest and escorted inside the checkpoint.

A few hours later, FLF agents encountered another similar situation. Agents discovered five illegal aliens amongst produce in the trailer cargo area of a blue Kenworth truck. The illegals who are nationals of Central America and Mexico were unable to freely exit the trailer as the doors were latched closed. The United States Citizen driver and Legally Admitted Permanent Resident passenger, along with the illegal immigrants were placed under arrest.