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  4. Another Week, Another Tractor-Trailer Human Smuggler Arrested by Border Patrol

Another Week, Another Tractor-Trailer Human Smuggler Arrested by Border Patrol

Release Date
Wed, 06/03/2020

SALTON CITY, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a man suspected of smuggling three illegal aliens hidden in the cabin of his tractor trailer Tuesday evening.

El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a man suspected of smuggling three illegal aliens hidden in the cabin of his tractor trailer Tuesday evening. The incident occurred at approximately 5:55 p.m., when a man driving a white 2016 Freightliner semi tractor-trailer approached the Highway 86 immigration checkpoint.  During an immigration check on the driver, a Border Patrol canine detection team alerted to the cabin area of the semi-truck.  The driver was referred for further inspection.

During the more intensive inspection, Border Patrol agents searched the cabin area of the semi-truck and discovered three illegal aliens attempting to conceal themselves with blankets.  Agents safely removed all of the subjects and conducted welfare checks.

The driver, a 43-year-old B1/B2 visa holder from Mexico, and three illegal aliens, all adult men from Mexico, were placed under arrest.

The driver was processed administratively for alien smuggling and visa cancelation.  The driver and illegal aliens were all expelled back to Mexico.

This incident is the eighth of its kind this year in the Imperial Valley, and the second in two weeks.  Last week, El Centro Sector agents discovered 12 illegal aliens locked inside of a tractor-trailer semi-truck.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021