Rollover Crash Uncovers Smuggling Operation in New Mexico, 35 Arrested

A rollover crash during an attempted migrant smuggling operation led to the arrest of 35 individuals in Chaparral, New Mexico, as U.S. Border Patrol agents uncovered a suspected stash house. Officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the incident took place on September 7, 2023.

The driver of a black SUV lost control while trying to evade border agents, resulting in a rollover. This crash followed the apprehension of two Mexican nationals suspected of smuggling. Details regarding the injuries, if any, sustained during the incident have not been disclosed.

Border Patrol and HSI Conduct Stash House Raid

On September 4, prior to the rollover incident, Border Patrol agents executed a follow-up operation at a residence in Chaparral. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), 28 undocumented migrants from Mexico and Guatemala were apprehended during this operation. The raid was conducted by the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Border Patrol agents, specifically the Smuggling Disruption Unit and the Border Patrol Tactical Unit, known as BORTAC.

Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the DHS, took to social media to highlight the operation, stating, “This is law and order in action. Human smugglers take note: do not attempt these reckless schemes. We will find you, we will prosecute you, and you will face the full weight of justice.”

Following the raid, 25 of the detainees remained in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pending removal, while eight individuals were charged with illegal re-entry into the United States. The two alleged smugglers are facing federal prosecution. The names of those arrested have not been made public.

Noem visited El Paso and southern New Mexico on August 19, where she announced plans to repaint the border fence black, an initiative aimed at enhancing border security.

This series of events underscores ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to combat human smuggling and reinforce border enforcement measures. The Border Patrol and HSI continue to actively monitor and respond to such incidents in an effort to maintain safety and security along the border.

For further information, please contact Daniel Borunda at [email protected].