LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents on Wednesday evening discovered 31 individuals in a smuggling attempt at the immigration checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35 north of Laredo, Texas.

The incident occurred on July 17, when agents encountered a white tractor-trailer in the primary inspection lane. While at the primary lane, a Border Patrol canine alerted to the odor of concealed narcotics and/or humans in the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle granted consent to a non-intrusive VACIS scan of the vehicle.

Agents discovered 31 individuals who were being transported in the back of the trailer. Record checks on the individuals determined they were nationals of Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. None of the individuals required any medical attention.

They were all placed under arrest, along with the driver, a United States citizen, to be processed accordingly. The case was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations.

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.   back...