ICE, BP and law enforcement partners intercept human smuggling load that results in the arrest of 8 illegal aliens

SAN ANTONIO — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement intercepted a smuggling attempt in coordination with U.S. Border Patrol, Air and Marine Operations, an operational component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Dimmit County Sheriff's Office. During the enhanced operation, ICE Homeland Security Investigation special agents from Laredo and Eagle Pass arrested eight illegal aliens, Feb. 19., near a ranch in Dimmit County, Texas.

The smuggled aliens were discovered inside locked compartments within the bed 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,” said ICE HSI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “This operation underscores our steadfast commitment to dismantling human smuggling networks and ensuring justice is served. The expertise and dedication of our agents were crucial in disrupting this criminal enterprise and safeguarding the lives of those involved."

“The Laredo Sector Border Patrol will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in dismantling human smuggling operations,” said Laredo Sector Chief Patrol Agent, Jesse D. Muñoz. “Partnerships are the cornerstone of our success. We are committed to the continued strengthening of collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as our international partners.”

The aliens arrested, who are from Mexico, have been transferred to the custody of the Border Patrol.

Members of the public can report immigration crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

Learn more about ICE HSI’s mission to increase public safety in Central and South Texas communities on X: @HSI_SanAntonio.