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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Border Patrol Foils Flatbed Trailer Human Smuggling Attempt

U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate Highway 35 checkpoint foiled a human smuggling attempt in a flatbed trailer north of Laredo.

The incident occurred during the early morning of November 19, when a pickup truck hauling a flatbed trailer approached the checkpoint.  During the immigration inspection of the driver, a service canine alerted to the vehicle. 

Further inspection revealed 26 individuals concealed in a false compartment in the trailer.  The individuals were determined to be illegally in the United States from the country of Mexico.  They were placed under arrest along with the U.S. citizen driver pending further investigation by Special Agents of Homeland Security Investigations. 

None of the individuals were wearing any personal protective equipment (PPE) while concealed in the cramped space under the flatbed trailer.  Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Hudak stated, “Trapping 26 people underneath the floor of this trailer created a very dangerous situation, putting the lives of these illegal aliens at risk.  Without any social distancing or PPE, these people were completely unprotected from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.  Smugglers continue to demonstrate a total disregard for public safety and the lives of smuggled aliens.”

Read more at CBP 

Border Patrol Foils Flatbed Trailer Human Smuggling Attempt Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Today
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.
Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Todayhttp://www.hstoday.us
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

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