A stash house in Mercedes, Texas, was discovered on June 2 by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), leading to the arrest of 16 individuals residing illegally in the United States.
The discovery followed a tip received by ICE on June 1 from an anonymous source who reported that several illegal aliens were being housed at a residence in Mercedes. ICE then coordinated with the Mercedes Police Department to conduct a welfare check on the property. During this check, authorities spoke with the property's owner, who admitted to harboring approximately 16 individuals inside.
"This operation underscores the critical role that the public and local law enforcement partners play in identifying and disrupting human smuggling operations," stated Mark Lippa, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley. "Transnational criminal networks continue to endanger lives for profit. ICE will relentlessly pursue those who exploit vulnerable individuals for financial gain."
The apprehended individuals were identified as nationals from Nepal, Albania, Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala. All sixteen were taken into custody due to immigration violations. Additionally, one Mexican national is currently under investigation for potential involvement in human smuggling activities.
The investigation into this case remains ongoing. The operation received support from various agencies including ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Border Patrol, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspicious activities or tips related to human smuggling by calling 866-347-2423 or submitting information anonymously through ICE's online tip form.
For more information about enforcement efforts and investigations conducted by HSI San Antonio, follow them on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.
