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Human Smuggling Event in Concealed Compartment Foiled

Release Date
Tue, 06/30/2020

LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents were assisted by the Encinal Police Department (EPD) in foiling a human smuggling event that utilized a concealed compartment near Encinal, Texas. 

The event occurred on the afternoon of June 29, after EPD officers stopped a white utility truck for a traffic violation.  The officers requested Border Patrol assistance.  Agents from the Laredo North Station responded and learned that the driver, a U.S. citizen, was transporting five individuals in a false compartment in the back of the work truck.  The individuals were determined to be in the United States illegally from Mexico.  The agents took the five individuals and the driver into custody pending further investigation.  EPD seized the vehicle. 

Laredo Sector Border Patrol afgents responding to a traffic stop assistance request by Encinal Police Department discovered five undocumented aliens within a white utility truck.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents responding to a
traffic stop assistance request from Encinal Police
Department discovered five undocumented aliens
within a white utility truck compartment.

Despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, smugglers repeatedly show their lack of concern and regard for the individuals they exploit.  Border Patrol agents will continue to work with their law enforcement partners to keep our communities and our nation safe.  They remain steadfast in preventing the flow of illegal immigration and the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, download the “USBP Laredo Sector” App or contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll free at 1-800-343-1994. 

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