A stash house in Mercedes, Texas, was discovered on June 2 by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), leading to the arrest of 16 individuals for immigration violations. The discovery followed a tip received by ICE on June 1 from an anonymous caller about illegal aliens being harbored at a residence.
ICE coordinated with the Mercedes Police Department to conduct a welfare check on the property. The property owner admitted to harboring approximately 16 people inside the home.
“This operation underscores the critical role that the public and local law enforcement partners play in identifying and disrupting human smuggling operations,” stated Mark Lippa, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Deputy Special Agent in Charge. “Transnational criminal networks continue to endanger lives for profit. ICE will relentlessly pursue those who exploit vulnerable individuals for financial gain.”
The individuals apprehended are nationals from Nepal, Albania, Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala. One Mexican national is currently under investigation for his potential involvement in human smuggling activities.
The investigation is ongoing with support from ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Border Patrol, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations.
The public is urged to report any suspicious activities or tips related to human smuggling by calling 866-347-2423 or submitting an anonymous tip through ICE’s online form.
For updates on enforcement efforts and investigations, follow HSI San Antonio on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.
