MASSENA, N.Y. - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers assigned to the Massena Port of Entry encountered two U.S. citizens who arrived at the border on June 13. During a primary inspection of the U.S citizens, CBP officers became suspicious of the travelers itinerary and referred the pair for additional inspection.
Upon further inspection, CBP officers discovered information relating to suspected human smuggling plans and indicating the travelers intended to meet two unknown individuals who had entered the U.S. illegally.
CBP officers working closely with U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) were able to apprehend two individuals who were illegally present in the U.S.
“The officers did an excellent job identifying a suspicious traveler and through additional research were able to identify their attempt to assist two unknown individuals who were entering the U.S. without inspection,” said Port Director Robert Dwyer. “We have an excellent working relationship with the U.S. Border Patrol and this joint effort led to the apprehension of two individuals who attempted to enter the U.S. illegally.”
CBP officers contacted the USBP who diverted a team to assist. USBP agents followed the pair of travelers from the Massena Port of Entry as they drove into the U.S. Agents observed the pair as they stopped to pick up two unknown subjects at a restaurant near Hogansburg, New York.
The USBP agents followed the subjects as they drove to a gas station and stopped. Agents approached the vehicle and questioned the occupants, resulting in the identification of two citizens of the Dominican Republic illegally present in the U.S.
“Border Patrol agents work closely with CBP officers to prevent the entry of illegal aliens into the United States.” said Wade Laughman, Massena Border Patrol Agent in Charge. “This case is an example of the tight coordination between CBP components that results in safer borders and U.S. communities.”
USBP arrested the four individuals and transported them to the Massena Border Patrol Station for further processing.
As America’s unified border agency, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) protects the United States against terrorist threats and prevents the illegal entry of people and dangerous materials into the United States, while facilitating lawful travel and trade. On average, CBP arrests 21 wanted persons at air, land and sea ports of entry across the United States. Additionally, CBP routinely conducts inspection operations on arriving and departing international flights and intercepts narcotics, weapons, currency, prohibited agriculture products, and other illicit items.