Two migrants found inside diesel tank during traffic stop
A truck driver was arrested earlier this month after officers discovered illegal migrants inside one of his diesel tanks.
The migrants were discovered on November 8th at about 9 p.m. on Interstate 35 at mile marker 27 near Laredo, Texas.
According to the Laredo Morning Times, a trooper pulled over a red Volvo semi truck for a regular traffic violation and decided to conduct a K9 inspection. During the inspection, the k9 alerted to the presence of contraband.
Upon investigation, officers discovered two migrants concealed inside one of the diesel tanks on the semi truck. The two men had to be cut out of the tanks in order to free them.
TX Trooper Finds Two Illegal Immigrants Smuggled Inside Gas Tank
— Chris Olivarez (@LtChrisOlivarez) November 11, 2024
11/8: A @TxDPS Trooper stopped a commercial vehicle on IH-35 in Webb County.
During a search of the truck tractor, the Trooper discovered two illegal immigrants concealed in the gas tank.
The Trooper arrested… pic.twitter.com/rsMQtPl5rX
The truck driver was identified as 47-year-old Gonzalo Rico Jr. and was arrested on two felony counts of smuggling of persons.
The migrants were in good health and were referred to the US Border Patrol.