DESERT HAVEN, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents stop another dangerous and unscrupulous attempt by human smugglers to transport individuals through an immigration checkpoint.

On April 1 Border Patrol agents working the U.S. Highway 62/180 immigration checkpoint made a dangerous discovery while inspecting a vehicle. Agents were questioning the occupants of a Cadillac sedan when they noted the driver and passenger became visibly nervous.

Acting on their suspicions of potential illicit activity, the agents initiated a search of the vehicle. Upon opening the trunk they discovered a female Mexican citizen hiding inside. All the subjects were taken in to custody for processing.

“Smugglers haven’t slowed down as they continue to place human lives at risk by locking them in concealed spaces. Preservation of life is paramount for the U.S. Border Patrol. Our Border Patrol Agents work tirelessly everyday to detect and rescue these human beings from dire situations.” stated Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez.

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico – U.S. Border Patrol agents arrest two men and recover a stolen vehicle at I-10 Checkpoint.

On March 31 Border Patrol Agents working the I-10 checkpoint west of Las Cruces encountered a vehicle with two passengers. During the initial inspection Border Patrol agents learned that the vehicle had been reported stolen.

Border Patrol agents took custody of the men, both U.S. citizens with criminal histories. The men and vehicle were turned over to the New Mexico State Police.

It is important to note that an arrest or criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered evidence of guilt. Subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol while remaining anonymous by calling 1-800-635-2509 toll-free.

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @USBPChiefEPT and @CBPWestTexas.