Border Patrol Stops Two Smuggling Attempts in One Day

LAREDO, TX -- In the span of a few hours border patrol agents foiled two human smuggling attempts at the I-35 checkpoint.

During the early evening hours of Thursday, October 15 a sedan approached the checkpoint. After being alerted by a service canine, officers located three individuals inside the truck of the car.

The three individuals were not wearing any personal protection equipment. 

About an hour-and-a-half later, a second sedan approached the primary inspection lane. During the inspection officers located two individuals inside the trunk.

They were also not wearing any PPE.

The five individuals were determined to be originally from Mexico and Honduras.

The five individuals were medically evaluated and it was determined they did not exhibit any symptoms or illness. Authorities also determined the individuals were in the country illegally.

The two drivers and a front seat passenger, all U.S. citizens, were taken into custody. The cars were seized by Border Patrol.

"Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, agents from the Laredo Sector are trained and ready to respond to an array of emergencies and provide aid to anyone in need," said Customs and Border Patrol in a statement. "Their commitment to Public Service is foremost in their duties. The Vision of the Laredo Sector is to enhance the Nation’s security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and community trust."