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CBP Arrests South African Man

Release Date
Tue, 11/13/2018

Traveler wanted for felony theft, probation violation

HOUSTON – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Bush Intercontinental Airport intercepted a South African man wanted for felony theft and probation violation prior to his boarding an international flight, Nov. 7.

Robert Van Rooyen, 39, was preparing to board a flight with a final destination to South Africa when CBP officers detained him.  Van Rooyen is a lawful permanent resident and is wanted in Harris County, Texas.

“As a law enforcement agency, we will take every opportunity to assist our law enforcement partners in apprehending suspects wanted for criminal activity,” said Houston CBP Port Director Raymond S. Polley. “These partnerships are essential to protecting our borders and our communities.”

CBP officers notified the Houston Police Department who arrested Van Rooyen; he will be turned over to Harris County Sherriff’s Office.

During the course of its border security mission, CBP officers at times encounter wanted suspects. On a typical day in fiscal year 2017, CBP arrested 21 wanted criminals at U.S. ports of entry.  

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