LAREDO, Texas – After a short vehicle pursuit that resulted in a reckless splash down into the Rio Grande River, U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Laredo South Station averted a narcotics smuggling attempt in El Cenizo, Texas.
The incident began during the mid-evening of October 7, when agents observed several individuals crossing the river with bundles toward a park on the U.S. side. As the agents continued surveillance, a gray sports utility vehicle approached the area, was loaded up with the bundles, and exited the park.
Agents attempted a vehicle stop, but the driver refused to yield. After a short vehicle pursuit, the driver traveled back toward the river and plunged the vehicle into the water. Two individuals abandoned the vehicle and made their way back to Mexico. Chief Patrol Agent Matthew J. Hudak said, “Smugglers continue to use dangerous and reckless tactics like this, putting criminal profits in front of public safety. Our agents remain steadfastly committed to stopping the smuggling of people and illegal contraband into the United States.”
Agents recovered four bundles of marijuana from the vehicle. The marijuana weighed approximately 300.16 lbs. with an estimated street value of $240,124. The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The vehicle was retrieved from the river and seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Border Patrol agents continue to prevent the flow of narcotics into our community and Nation. The Laredo Sector Border Patrol is committed to the mission of the agency to protect the American people by safeguarding our border along with enhancing the Nation’s economic prosperity.
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. If you see something, please say something.