U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Brian A. Terry Station have arrested two teenagers from New Mexico for human smuggling near Palominas, Arizona. The incident occurred on March 1 when surveillance operators noticed a person in camouflage in an area known for smuggling activities. Upon investigation, agents stopped a black Dodge Ram pickup for an immigration inspection.
The driver and front passenger, both 17 years old and U.S. citizens from New Mexico, were found with three men attempting to hide in the backseat of the vehicle. These men were identified as Mexican nationals illegally present in the United States.
The male driver and female passenger were taken into custody at the Brian A. Terry Station, and the vehicle was seized by authorities. The three Mexican nationals had previously been removed from the U.S., and they will face reinstatement of their prior removal orders. They are also set to be material witnesses in a human smuggling case against the driver, though no charges will be filed against the female passenger at this time.
The Tucson Sector has reminded the public that under 8 U.S.C 1324, harboring or bringing certain aliens into the United States is a felony that can lead to imprisonment if convicted.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection encourages community members to report suspicious activities anonymously by calling their toll-free number, potentially aiding in saving lives.
For updates on similar incidents or other news, follow Tucson Sector Chief on X at @USBPChiefTCA and CBP Arizona at @CBPArizona.
CBP is recognized as America's frontline defense and operates as a unified border management agency with over 65,000 personnel committed to safeguarding national security while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
