TX Border: CBP, ICE Rescue Unaccompanied Eight Year Old, Seize $10M In Drugs And Almost $1M In Cash
For anyone to understand whether there are actual drugs, smuggling, human trafficking, illegal immigrant crossings or gang activity is a problem or political bloviation, we need the numbers and facts…
By, Corridor Staff
Below you will find new information reported drug, smuggling, human trafficking and illegal crossings that have occurred either on the Texas border and ports over the week of July 18 – July 24, 2018.
As you read below, you may come to understand the issues on the U.S. and Mexico border are not a simple problem to be fixed by the current border security policies out of D.C.
It has been recently published by many media outlets that the drug, smuggling, human trafficking and illegal crossings have been consistently dropping over the last couple of years.
U.S. citizens are given inconsistent information on illegal crossings and criminal activity that is happening on the Mexico and U.S. border.
For anyone to understand whether drug, smuggling, human trafficking, illegal immigrant crossings or gang activity is a problem or political bloviation, we need the numbers and facts.
Texas isn’t the only state that shares a border with Mexico. So as you read the weekly report below, remember this information is only what is occurring on the Texas-Mexico border and Texas ports.
We gathered the information below directly from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which is under the purview of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
As for the accuracy of the information we have provided to you, we can only decipher the information that is released to us. Therefore the number of incidents, arrests, types of narcotics, weight and street value is considered the minimum amount…
Below you can find the totals of illegal crossing arrests, including their nationality & drug seizures including pounds, type of drug and “street value” total. Additionally, you will find a link to view last week’s totals.
All people apprehended by the Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks using biometrics to ensure their criminal histories are positively identified. To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, contact their website at http://www.cbp.gov. Or follow them on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 1-800-863-9382.
Read related border coverage:
- July 18, 2018: Texas Border Operations: CBP Seize $12.7 Million In Drugs, Arrest 322, Including Gang Members, Child Molesters
- July 11, 2018: Texas Weekly Border Report Includes The Rescue Of Three Year Old Child Abandoned By Human Smuggler
- July 5, 2018: CBP Seize $2.3 Million In Narcotics, Apprehend Nine Gang Members, Four Child Molesters
NOTE: The totals below for of arrests, apprehensions, seizures, drugs, etc. are ONLY what is reported by Customs & Border Protection. Corridor News is not responsible for what is NOT reported.
• Week of July 18 – July 24, 2018 •
Texas Border Reported Arrests/Apprehensions
• Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Ecuador, Mexico, China and United States Weekly Total: 107
Of those above were…
° 6 U.S. Citizens
° 3 MS-13 Gang Members
° Deceased: None Reported
° 10 Rescues
Texas Weekly Drug Total Seizures & Estimated Street Price
NOTE: The totals are an estimate. U.S. dollar and weight in pounds used.
WIKILEAF• Marijuana
° 2,224 lbs.
° $8,807,040
• Cocaine:
° 23.33 lbs.
° $846,585
• Methamphetamine (crystal)
° 8 lbs.
° $290,299
• Additional Confiscated/Seized Goods:
° $879,695 U.S. Cash
° 1 Vehicle
Weekly Drug Weight Total:
2,255 lbs.
Estimated Drug Street Value:
$9,937,924 Million
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol rescues unaccompanied child who only speaks dialect
Release Date: July 24, 2018
WESLACO, Texas – Yesterday, U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Weslaco station encountered an unaccompanied child that is unable to communicate with agents because he only speaks dialect.
Agents discovered the eight-year-old boy after he was smuggled across the Rio Grande and abandoned by a river road alone.
The child was unable to provide basic biographical information to agents as they questioned him during initial contact. Agents were only able to obtain his name and age.
Upon arriving to the Rio Grande Valley Centralized Processing Center, agents attempted to gather additional information from the child but were unsuccessful due to the language barrier. The Border Patrol is currently working with consulate offices to determine the child’s nationality and dialect origin to process him accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
CBP Officers at Laredo Port of Entry Seize Narcotics Worth More Than $513K This Weekend
Release Date: July 23, 2018
Packages containing 1,792 pounds of marijuana seized by CBP officers at World Trade Bridge. Photo courtesy of CBP.LAREDO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers at Laredo Port of Entry seized narcotics with an estimated street value of $513,000 in two enforcement actions over the weekend.
“Despite searing heat, our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain their vigilance and that dedication to service yielded two significant narcotics loads that will not reach U.S.
streets,” said Port Director Alberto
Flores, Laredo Port of Entry.
The most recent seizure occurred on Saturday, July 21 when CBP officers at the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge referred a 1997 GMC pickup truck for a secondary inspection.
During the secondary inspection, CBP officers along with the help of a canine team conducted a thorough examination and found narcotics hidden within the vehicle. CBP officers discovered two packages containing a total of eight pounds of alleged crystal methamphetamine.
The larger of the two seizures occurred on Friday, July 20 when CBP officers assigned to the World Trade Bridge referred a tractor-trailer hauling a shipment of plastic scrap for a secondary inspection.
Upon a non-intrusive and physical inspection by CBP officers, a total of 140 packages containing a total of 1,792 pounds of alleged marijuana were discovered within the commodity.
The narcotics combined have an estimated street value of $513,494. CBP OFO seized the narcotics. Both cases remain under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations special agents.
For more information about CBP, please click on the attached link.
Extreme heat in the Rio Grande Valley intensifies dangers for illegal crossers
Release Date: July 23, 2018
Air and Marine and Border Patrol agents along with U.S. Fish and Wildlife officers rescue two lost subjects. Photo courtesy of CBP.MCALLEN, Texas– With the recent weather conditions, U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) continue to rescue illegal aliens in distress due to heat related injuries after being abandoned by their callous smugglers.
Today, agents assigned to the McAllen station encountered two illegal aliens requiring medical attention due to prolonged exposure to the excessive heat.
Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Fish and Wildlife Officers were on scene to evaluate and provide treatment. An Air and Marine Operations helicopter also landed to provide assistance.
The EMTs determined that the Ecuadoran male needed further medical attention and agents requested an ambulance to transport him to a local hospital. Agents treated the Guatemalan female at the scene and cleared her for transport and processing.
“Smugglers have a complete disregard for human life and continue to endanger the lives of those determined to cross illegally into the United States,” said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla, Jr. “Our agents are prepared and will continue to provide lifesaving efforts as the need arises.”
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Another stash house dismantled in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: July 23, 2018
EDCOUCH, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents, working in collaboration with the Hidalgo County Constables Office Precinct 4, disrupted a stash house operation resulting in the apprehension of several illegal aliens.
On Friday, agents identified a suspected stash house in Edcouch, Texas. Inside, agents apprehended six illegal aliens from the countries of Mexico and Guatemala.
All subjects will be processed accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol arrests three MS-13 gang members
Release Date: July 23, 2018
Rio Grande Valley agents arrest MS-13 gang members. Photo courtesy of CBP.EDINBURG, Texas – Agents across the Rio Grande Valley arrested three members of the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang.
On Friday, agents assigned to the Weslaco station arrested a Salvadoran man near Hidalgo, Texas. His records revealed that the man is a member of the MS-13 gang.
Saturday, McAllen agents apprehended a Salvadoran national near Granjeno, Texas. The man entered the country illegally with his minor daughter. His record later revealed that he is a member of the MS-13 gang.
Later that day, Rio Grande City agents arrested a Salvadoran national whose records showed that he is a member of the MS-13 gang.
The men will be processed accordingly.
“The Rio Grande Valley continues to encounter instances where criminal aliens are attempting to circumvent the system,” said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla, Jr. “We will remain vigilant and focused in identifying these criminal elements.”
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol agent “rocked” by illegal aliens
Release Date: July 23, 2018
PROGRESO, Texas – A U.S. Border Patrol agent became the target of a rock assault after locating a group of illegal aliens.
Yesterday, a Weslaco agent responded to a report of several subjects who had illegally entered the United States and were underneath the Progreso International Bridge.
As the agent approached the area, a group of approximately 10 illegal aliens began to throw rocks, which impacted the vehicle multiple times. The agent immediately radioed for assistance. When additional units arrived, the assaultive group retreated into the Rio Grande and swam to Mexico.
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and report suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Agents Save Fleeing Man From Heat Related Injury
Release Date: July 23, 2018
DEL RIO, Texas – Agents assigned to the Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Tactical Unit provided emergency medical care to an undocumented immigrant who had become unconscious after fleeing from agents in the extreme heat.
“Crossing the border illegally is an exhausting journey that comes with inherent risks,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Felix Chavez. “That is intensified by this continued extreme heat. Thanks to the right equipment and resources, our agents are better equipped to render emergency aid to those who are determined to make these dangerous treks to the U.S.,” he added.
In this most recent case on July 19, agents from the Del Rio Sector Special Operations Detachment encountered multiple individuals on a remote ranch south of Eagle Pass. Agents were tracking a large group of suspected aliens when they came upon the group.
Two subjects were immediately apprehended, but the rest fled into surrounding brush. Over the next six hours, agents continued following the rest of the group, even with temperatures hitting as high as 104-degrees.
With the help of a service canine and helicopters from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine, agents apprehended an additional four subjects, one of whom was unconscious and suffering from an apparent heat-related emergency.
The man, later identified as a 19-year-old Guatemalan National, had to be carried out of the brush. Agents got him to a highway where an Emergency Medical Technician attached to the Tactical Unit provided life-saving care. After the agent’s assistance, he was sent over to the Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center for further evaluation.
Once treated, the Guatemalan National was released from the hospital and returned to the Eagle Pass South Border Patrol Station for processing, pursuant to CBP guidelines.
In fiscal year 2018, there have been 17 reported deaths in the Del Rio Sector area of operations, which represents a 70-percent increase from the previous fiscal year. Across all Border Patrol sectors, heat-related incidents account for the majority of reported deaths, and are up 46-percent from last year.
The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 866-511-8727.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol Arrests Eight Guatemalan Nationals, Assisting Webb County Sheriff’s Office Following Warrant Execution at Stash House
Release Date: July 20, 2018
Border Patrol agents apprehended eight Guatemalan nationals after assisting Webb County sheriff’s deputies following execution of an arrest warrant at a residence in Central Laredo. Photo courtesy of CBP.LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents on July 20 assisted the Webb County Sheriff’s Office, apprehending eight illegal aliens from a stash house on Garfield Street in Laredo, Texas.
Webb County Sheriff’s Office deputies were executing an arrest warrant when they encountered eight male individuals during the search of the residence.
Border Patrol agents then arrived on scene to conduct immigration inspections on the individuals, who were determined to be illegally in the United States from the country of Guatemala.
The stash house caretaker, a Mexican national, was determined to be illegally in the United States and was arrested. All individuals were processed accordingly.
“The cooperation between the Border Patrol and our local law enforcement partners has continued to prove to be positive and fruitful in disrupting and degrading criminal organizations that constantly put people’s lives in danger. With the assistance of local law enforcement officials, we
will continue to help those who are subjected to these terrible situations while also protecting the nation from these organizations,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol agents responding to 911 calls save lives
Release Date: July 20, 2018
FALFURRIAS, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents located and rescued a Mexican and Salvadoran national.
Yesterday, Falfurrias agents responded to two different 911 calls from the Brooks County Sheriff’s Office regarding reports of illegal aliens being lost in the brush.
At 12:53 AM, agents rescued a Mexican national near Falfurrias, Texas, who showed signs of dehydration. He was transported to a local hospital, treated, and discharged.
At 1:30 PM, Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) agents found a Salvadoran national lost in the brush. The man was treated for minor injuries. Both men will be processed accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol agents seize over 300 pounds of marijuana
Release Date: July 20, 2018
Agents seized over 300 pounds of marijuana near Progreso, Texas. Photo courtesy of CBP.PROGRESO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents seize over 300 pounds of marijuana after conducting a traffic stop.
Yesterday, agents assigned to the Weslaco station witnessed a man attempt to smuggle several bundles of narcotics that were loaded onto his vehicle near the bank of the Rio Grande and then drive north to exploit one of the gaps in the border wall.
Agents arrested the driver, and seized four bundles of narcotics along with the vehicle as a result of a vehicle stop.
The driver, a 23-year-old United States citizen and narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The public is encouraged to take a stand against crime in their communities and to help save lives by reporting suspicious activity at 800-863-9382.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Missing Migrant Program and TRICAMEX fly over the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: July 20, 2018
Air and Marine Operations provided flight for the TRICAMEX group. Photo courtesy of CBP.EDINBURG, Texas – Yesterday, Air and Marine Operations agents from the McAllen Air Brach conducted a familiarization flight for TRICAMEX.
The Border Patrol Missing Migrant Program conducted a tour of the Rio Grande Sector’s area of responsibility in order to familiarize the consulate officers with the hazardous terrain and dangers involved in the trek immigrants’ face when attempting to illegally enter the United States.
Air and Marine Operations provided flight for the TRICAMEX group.
TRICAMEX is a consular coordination group that promotes communication, exchanges of experiences, and lessons learned in the field of protection and consular services. They are comprised of the consular offices from Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Mexico.
The exercise provided a clear understanding of the areas needed to refine deterrence methodology aimed at reducing illegal entries, ultimately eradicating immigrant deaths. It also enhanced collaboration from all parties in order to create solidified prevention campaigns.
“Reducing immigrant deaths to zero is our ultimate goal,” said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla, Jr. “We will continue to work with our international partners to save lives.”
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol rescues a man requesting medical assistance and two others showing symptoms of dehydration in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: July 20, 2018
ROMA, Texas– U.S. Border Patrol agents located and rescued a Mexican national requesting medical assistance and two other victims suffering heat related symptoms.
Yesterday, Rio Grande City agents encountered a man on the riverbank of the Rio Grande that was smuggled across in a raft. Upon encounter, he claimed to have a hernia and requested medical assistance.
The man was immediately transported to a local hospital where he was diagnosed with a different illness and then transferred to a different hospital to receive the appropriate treatment.
Later in the day, McAllen agents located a man near Los Ebanos, Texas that was displaying signs of dehydration. Agents contacted the Hidalgo County Emergency Medical Service, and the man was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
Today, the Falfurrias Station received a call regarding a lost person in the Brooks County ranchlands. Agents responded to the area and found the man matching the description of the report.
The Mexican national was displaying symptoms of dehydration and malnutrition. An ambulance transported the man to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
Once treated and medically discharged, the men will be processed for accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Mission Police and Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol work together to stop a smuggler
Release Date: July 20, 2018
MISSION, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents along with Mission Police Officers work together to halt a smuggling attempt resulting in the arrest of one United States citizen and nine illegal aliens.
On July 17, Border Patrol agents, working in collaboration with the Mission Police Department, identified a human smuggling attempt.
Border Patrol agents from the McAllen Station and Mission Police Officers were able to apprehend a total of nine illegal immigrants. The countries of origin included: Guatemala, China, Mexico and El Salvador.
The Mission Police Department took custody of the alien smuggler identified as a 31 year old, Angel Felipe Rodriguez of Weslaco. Mr. Rodriguez was taken before a magistrate and charged with the offense of Smuggling of Persons.
Mr. Angel Felipe Rodriguez was remanded to de Hidalgo County County Jail in lieu of bond. The criminal case will be forwarded to the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
“We will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners throughout the Rio Grande Valley to make our communities safer”, said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla Jr.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
CBP Seizes Nearly $180K in Cocaine at Hidalgo International Bridge
Release Date: July 19, 2018
Packages containing 23 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge. Photo courtesy of CBP.HIDALGO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) at the Hidalgo International Bridge arrested a 20-year-old woman from Pharr, Texas after discovering $180,000 in cocaine hidden within the vehicle she was driving.
“The small load concept seems to be prevalent at this time, as we have encountered several of these smuggling attempts recently,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/ Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “Our officers’ keen sense of awareness have enabled these great interceptions.”
On July 18, a female U.S. citizen driving a black 2012 Volkswagen Jetta arrived at the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge and was referred for further inspection. During the secondary inspection and with the assistance of a canine team (canine team), officers discovered 10 packages of alleged cocaine concealed within the Jetta. CBP OFO seized the 23.33 pounds (10.58 kgs.) of narcotics and seized the vehicle as well.
CBP OFO arrested the woman and then released her to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents for further investigation.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol discovers eight in a Roma stash house
Release Date: July 19, 2018
Agents apprehend eight aliens in a local stash house. Photo courtesy of CBP.ROMA, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Sector dismantle a stash house operation resulting in the apprehension of eight illegal aliens.
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents, working in collaboration with the Starr County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area task force, identified a suspected stash house operating out of a residence in Roma, Texas. Inside, agents found a total of eight illegal aliens from the countries of Mexico and Guatemala.
All subjects will be processed accordingly.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol rescues continue through the unforgiving South Texas heat
Release Date: July 19, 2018
Agents rescue to people in distress from South Texas ranches. Photo courtesy of CBP.SULLIVAN CITY, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents locate an unconscious woman and rescue a man in distress.
On Tuesday, McAllen agents responded to a call from the Sullivan City Police Department requesting assistance with a group of illegal aliens that had turned themselves in.
Upon arrival, agents identified a 23 year-old Mexican national who displayed symptoms of a heat related illness. Agents contacted the local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to transport the man to the local hospital for an evaluation.
As agents waited for EMS, the man informed agents he had illegally crossed the Rio Grande with his wife and two small children.
The man explained after crossing the river, he felt the trek north would be too dangerous for his family and asked his wife to return to Mexico with their children. The man was concerned that his family did not return to Mexico and were lost in the brush.
The Border Patrol deployed several search teams, including a National Guard air unit, to along the U.S. riverbank. While searching, agents encountered an unconscious woman. The woman, who did not match the description of the spouse, was extracted from the dense foliage and air-lifted to a local hospital where she remains in critical condition. After an extensive search of the area, the man’s wife and children were not located.
The following day, as agents were speaking with the man about the the last area he saw his family, his wife called his cell phone to inform him that she was safe in Mexico with their children.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Border Patrol Agents Thwart Careless Smuggling Tactics
Release Date: July 18, 2018
Border Patrol agents discovered 10 illegal aliens hidden in the sleeper compartment of a tractor trailer at the Interstate 35 checkpoint. Courtesy of CBP.LAREDO, Texas – Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate Highway 35 Border Patrol Checkpoint prevented a human smuggling attempt of 10 illegal aliens.
On July 17, the event transpired after the driver of the tractor-trailer consented to a non-intrusive scan utilizing an X-ray imaging system.
During the non-intrusive scan, the agent observed anomalies within the sleeper compartment of the cabin.
Upon further inspection, Border Patrol agents discovered 10 illegal aliens inside the sleeper compartment of the cabin.
The nine males and one female were found in good health and determined to be from the country of Mexico. The driver, a United States citizen, was arrested.
The case is currently under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations.
“The men and women of the United States Border Patrol remain determined not only to protect the nation’s borders from illicit activity, but ensure that those who cross illegally are treated humanely. The U.S. Border Patrol will continue in the disruption and deterrence of any careless tactics utilized by smugglers,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.
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 800-343-1994.
CBP Officers at Laredo Port of Entry This Week Apprehend Man with Warrant for Aggravated Robbery with Weapon
Release Date: July 18, 2018
LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Field Operations officers at the Laredo Port of Entry this week apprehended a local man with a pending felony warrant regarding charges of aggravated robbery-other dangerous weapon.
“Our frontline officers maintain their resolute vigilance on a 24/7 basis and that dedication and attention to detail resulted in the apprehension of a local man on a significant violent crime warrant,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry.
The apprehension occurred on Monday, July 16 at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge. CBP officers conducted a primary examination on a male pedestrian arriving from Mexico with no entry documents and referred him to secondary for further inspection due to a possible match to an outstanding warrant.
CBP officers conducted a fingerprint check and utilizing national law enforcement databases confirmed his identity as 33-year-old Miguel Angel Sanchez, a U.S. citizen wanted by the Laredo Police Department on outstanding felony warrants for aggravated robbery-other dangerous weapon and theft.
CBP officers turned Sanchez over to the custody of Laredo Police officers for adjudication of the warrants. Charges and allegations contained in criminal complaints are merely accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
For more information about CBP, please consult the following link.
CBP Foils $879K Currency Smuggling Attempt
Release Date: July 18, 2018
CBP seizes currency when international travelers carrying more than $10,000 fail to truthfully report the amount to CBP. Photo courtesy of CBP.SAN ANTONIO – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the San Antonio International Airport intercepted a pair of travelers allegedly smuggling currency out of the U.S. July 15.
CBP seizes currency when international travelers carrying more than $10,000 fail to truthfully report the amount to CBP.
The travelers were carrying $879,695 packed in boxes and duct taped closed and were en route to Mexico via private aircraft
when they were apprehended.
Two CBP officers arrived to San Antonio’s Fixed Base Operation to conduct an outbound inspection on a private aircraft when they noticed the aircraft was on the runway preparing for departure. The officers informed the Federal Aviation Administration tower that the aircraft had not been cleared for departure and to direct the plane to the CBP General Aviation Facility.
When the aircraft arrived, the officers began their inspection, which included asking the passengers for an oral declaration of any currency or monetary instruments they were carrying. Each passenger provided a negative oral declaration followed by a negative written declaration on CBP Form 6051B.
An inspection of the aircraft revealed taped boxes with stacks of currency concealed inside. CBP officers arrested two Mexican nationals for allegedly intending to evade the currency reporting requirements by knowingly concealing more than $10,000 in currency or other monetary instruments and attempting to transport the currency from within the U.S. to a place outside of the U.S.
“Travelers are given multiple opportunities to make a truthful declaration,” said CBP Port Director Lois Hunter. “We strongly urge travelers to be completely forthright during CBP inspections or risk having their currency seized as well as face charges.”
Travelers may carry as much currency as they wish into and out of the United States and it is not taxed at the port of entry. However, federal law requires that travelers who are carrying more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments must report it to a CBP officer and complete a U.S. Treasury Department financial form.
“One of the reasons CBP performs outbound inspections is to protect against unreported exportations of bulk U.S. currency, which often can be proceeds from alleged illicit activity, or currency that funds transnational criminal organizations,” said Houston’s CBP Acting Director of Field Operations Beverly Good. “This significant currency seizure is a direct reflection of our continuing commitment to enforcing all U.S. laws, including federal currency reporting requirements.”
This is among the largest single seizure of unreported currency in the Houston Field Office region which includes San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Houston. The two men were arrested and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations.
On a typical day in 2017, CBP officers around the country seize $265,205 in undeclared or illicit currency.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol continues to see juveniles exploited by the cartels
Release Date: July 18, 2018
Juveniles are increasingly being used in smuggling. Photo courtesy of CBP.BROWNSVILLE, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents arrest three juvenile drug smugglers.
On Thursday, Fort Brown agents observed several subjects illegally enter the United States with bundles of narcotics on their backs.
Agents responded and arrested a 25 year-old man and a 15 year-old juvenile. The remaining subjects fled to Mexico. A search of the area led to the discovery of 3 bundles of marijuana weighing over 64 pounds with an estimated street value of over $51K.
Yesterday, also in the Fort Brown area of responsibility, agents responded to a report of four subjects illegally entering the United States. Upon arrival, they located and arrested two 17 year-old juveniles carrying bundles of marijuana and observed the other two subjects jump back into the Rio Grande, returning to Mexico. The marijuana weighed more than
68 pounds and had an estimated street value of over $55K.
The narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the subjects were referred for prosecution.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns to include “Operation Detour”, an outreach program where agents attend local schools to talk about the dangers and possibility of recruitment of juveniles by the cartels, “Operation Big Rig” which focuses on rescues and danger awareness, and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol disrupts a stash house in Mission
Release Date: July 18, 2018
Border Patrol agents encounter 12 aliens in stash house. Photo courtesy of CBP.MISSION, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Sector dismantle a stash house operation resulting in the apprehension of multiple illegal aliens.
Today, Border Patrol agents, working in collaboration with the Hidalgo County Constables Office, Precinct 4, identified a suspected stash house operating out of a residence in Mission, Texas.
Agents located 12 illegal aliens inside the residence, which included one Mexican national and eleven Guatemalan nationals.
All subjects will be processed accordingly. The case is being referred for prosecution.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection.
Caltrop used to disable Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol vehicle
Release Date: July 18, 2018
Caltrops used to disable vehicles. Photo courtesy of CBP.WESLACO, Texas – A U.S. Border Patrol vehicle was temporarily disabled by a homemade tire deflation device.
Yesterday, a Weslaco agent was patrolling along the Rio Grande near Pharr, Texas, when he noticed that one of his tires lost air pressure.
After the agent changed the tire, a quick inspection revealed that a homemade tire deflation device, also known as a caltrop, was used to deflate the tire.
Agents responded to the area to search for any additional caltrops but none were located.
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Missing Migrant Program Expands Life-Saving Efforts Across 4200 Square Miles in the Rio Grande Valley
Release Date: July 18, 2018
Over 1000 signs will be placed in the harsh ranchlands. Photo courtesy of CBP.EDINBURG, Texas – The United States Border Patrol launches an initiative to assist migrants lost during their trek through the Rio Grande Valley. The initiative will place over 1,000 signs in the areas vast and desolate ranchlands.
The United States Border Patrol’s Missing Migrant Program (MMP) continues to innovate and improve upon methodologies not only to identify the remains of people who have lost their lives on a perilous trip north, but also to protect and save the lives of individuals who run into trouble in the sweltering heat of the Rio Grande Valley(RGV).
All too often, immigrants find themselves lost, dehydrated, and overheated in the inhospitable ranchlands common throughout Brooks, Kenedy, Kleberg, and Willacy Counties.
They call 911 for help, but do not know their location and the current E911 system is unable to narrow the search area enough for potential rescuers to search effectively.
The lost immigrants oftentimes make their way to landmarks like cell towers and windmills, in hopes of finding something denoting their location, but their hopes are often dashed when there are no identifying markings to tell them where they are.
The MMP’s RGV Location Marker Project initiative involves the placement of more than 1,200 signs on high-visibility landmarks throughout South Texas. Those signs bear simple and easy-to-understand instructions to call 911 and give the sign’s unique number to the emergency dispatcher.
The emergency call centers have been provided a precise GPS location that corresponds with the sign number, allowing for far quicker responses by rescuers. The signs will be deployed to the field as soon as soon as they are fabricated.
“Saving lives is at the forefront of every Border Patrol Agent’s mind,” said Chief Patrol Agent Manuel Padilla, Jr. “We sometimes attempt multiple rescues in a day, so if we can shorten the duration of the search because of these signs and reach people in minutes instead of hours, we stand a much better chance of accomplishing our mission of safeguarding human life.”
The Rio Grande Valley Sector currently has multiple campaigns focused on rescues and danger awareness, such as “Operation Big Rig” and “No Se Arriesgue” to combat smuggling and ultimately save lives. Call 911 to report suspicious activity; “They’re humans, not cargo!”
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @CBPRGV.
Laredo Sector Border Patrol Agents Foil Alien Smuggling Attempt and Arrest 20 Illegal Aliens
Release Date: July 17, 2018
Border Patrol agents discovered 20 illegal aliens hidden in a tractor trailer at the checkpoint on FM 1017 near Hebbronville, Texas. Photo courtesy of CBP.LAREDO, Texas – On July 17, 2018, Hebbronville agents assigned to the checkpoint located on Farm to Market Road 1017 intercepted a smuggling attempt of 20 illegal aliens.
The incident occurred after the driver of the tractor trailer presented himself for inspection.
Subsequently, a service canine alerted agents to the presence of concealed humans and/or narcotics. Upon further inspection, Border Patrol agents discovered 20 illegal aliens inside the trailer.
The illegal aliens were found in good health and were identified as being from the countries of Mexico, El Salvador, and Honduras.
The driver, a United States citizen, was arrested. All subjects were processed accordingly.
“CBP not only strives to protect the American people from all dangers, but to prevent deaths and stop unscrupulous smugglers who put immigrants lives at risk. This interdiction is a clear representation of our commitment to safeguard those values,” said Laredo Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.
To report suspicious activity such as alien and/or drug smuggling, contact the Laredo Sector Border Patrol toll-free telephone number at 800-343-1994.
