Loaded Handgun Seized From Man Attempting to Smuggle Illegal Aliens

U.S.CBP NEWS RELEASE

DEL RIO, TX – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to an Eagle Pass Station temporary checkpoint seized a loaded handgun from a man attempting to smuggle four illegal aliens, Jan. 5.
Agents discovered a loaded .40-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun under the driver’s seat.

“Smugglers in possession of loaded firearms are of serious concern to me,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul L. Ortiz. “However, our agents are prepared and remain determined to keep our communities and country safe.”
On Jan. 5, agents assigned to a temporary checkpoint near Eagle Pass observed a 2016 Dodge Charger turn around before the checkpoint and pull over. Agents then observed several individuals run into the brush. In total, agents arrested six people including two male smugglers and discovered a loaded .40-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun under the driver’s seat. The driver, a 22-year-old U.S. citizen, and passenger, a 21-year-old U.S. citizen, both from Crystal City, were arrested for attempting to smuggle four illegal aliens farther into the United States. The illegal aliens consisted of two Ecuadorians, one Nicaraguan, and one Honduran.

Both smugglers face felony charges under 8 USC 1324, alien smuggling, and if convicted could receive up to 10 years in prison. All illegal aliens are processed in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.