Ariz. Border Patrol Agents Apprehend Four Illegal Aliens

Tucson, Ariz. – In two separate smuggling attempts yesterday, Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to highway checkpoints apprehended four illegal aliens hiding in the trunks of vehicles.

Early yesterday, a Nogales Station canine team alerted to a vehicle at the Interstate 19 Checkpoint and it was referred for a secondary inspection. Subsequently, agents conducted an X-ray scan of the vehicle which indicated an anomaly inside the trunk. Further inspection led to the discovery of two Mexican female illegal aliens hiding in the trunk. One of the females appeared to be in distress and the Tubac Fire Department was contacted. All occupants were provided necessary medical attention and were cleared for transport to the Nogales Station for processing. The driver, a U.S. citizen, is being prosecuted on alien smuggling charges.

Also yesterday, Willcox Station Border Patrol agents working at the State Highway 90 Checkpoint referred a vehicle for a secondary inspection after a canine team alerted to the vehicle. Subsequently, agents opened the trunk and discovered two Mexican male illegal aliens hiding inside. Upon further inspection of the trunk, agents discovered there was no release mechanism or other means of emergency escape. The subjects stated they were inside the trunk approximately one hour without water. All occupants were provided the necessary medical attention and cleared for transport to the Willcox Station for processing. The driver faces federal prosecution for alien smuggling.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.