Robert Hammer Acting Executive Associate Director, Homeland Security Investigations | U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently thwarted a human smuggling operation in collaboration with U.S. Border Patrol, Air and Marine Operations, and the Dimmit County Sheriff's Office. The coordinated effort led to the arrest of eight individuals near a ranch in Dimmit County, Texas, on February 19.
The individuals were found concealed within locked compartments of a stolen utility truck. "ICE HSI and our law enforcement partners successfully intercepted a human smuggling operation where multiple individuals were found locked inside hidden compartments of a utility truck," stated ICE HSI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. He emphasized the agency's commitment to dismantling smuggling networks and ensuring justice.
Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz highlighted the importance of partnerships in these operations: "The Laredo Sector Border Patrol will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in dismantling human smuggling operations." He stressed ongoing collaboration with various agencies at different levels.
The arrested individuals, all from Mexico, have been handed over to Border Patrol custody. The public is encouraged to report immigration crimes or suspicious activities through the ICE Tip Line or online tip form.
Further information about ICE HSI’s mission can be accessed on their social media platform X: @HSI_SanAntonio.
