Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents in Texas intercepted a human smuggling attempt at the I-35 Checkpoint near Laredo on April 7. The incident took place around midnight when agents encountered a red tractor trailer in the primary inspection lane. After receiving consent, the agents used the Multi-Energy Portal (MEP) to inspect the vehicle further.
Their physical search of the tractor trailer revealed five individuals who were subsequently taken into custody. These individuals were found to have entered the United States illegally from Mexico. They are set to be processed according to immigration procedures. The investigation is being led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) emphasized community involvement in such scenarios, inviting citizens to report suspicious activity to the Laredo Sector Border Patrol, with the assurance of anonymity by calling 1-800-343-1994.
As stated by CBP, the organization functions as "America's frontline," serving as the largest law enforcement agency in the country and the first unified border management agency worldwide. With over 65,000 personnel, CBP works to protect the nation through land, air, and sea. The agency aims to facilitate secure lawful travel and trade while securing economic prosperity and enhancing national security through a combination of innovation, intelligence, and collaboration.