On April 29, 2019 federal agents in Laredo, Texas rescued 66 individuals in an apparent smuggling attempt at the immigration checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35.
The incident happened shortly before midnight when agents encountered a tractor-trailer in the primary inspection area. While at the primary lane, a Border Patrol canine alerted to the odor of concealed narcotics and/or humans in the vehicle.
The driver was instructed to move the vehicle to the secondary inspection area where further inspection revealed a total of 66 individuals including two juveniles locked in the trailer.
Record checks on the individuals determined they were nationals of Ecuador, Guatemala, and Mexico with no legal right to be in the United States. All individuals appeared to be in good health and did not require medical attention.
Border Patrol seized the vehicle and took into custody all subjects including the driver who is a U.S. citizen.
