A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation uncovered a suspected stash house in Mercedes, Texas, on June 2, resulting in the apprehension of 16 undocumented immigrants, authorities said.
The operation began after ICE received an anonymous tip on June 1, reporting that multiple undocumented individuals were being harbored at a residence. ICE contacted the Mercedes Police Department, which conducted a welfare check. 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,” ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mark Lippa said. “Transnational criminal networks continue to endanger lives for profit. ICE will relentlessly pursue those who exploit vulnerable individuals for financial gain.”
The 16 individuals, identified as nationals of Nepal, Albania, Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala, were taken into custody for immigration violations. Authorities are questioning a Mexican national for possible involvement in human smuggling. The investigation remains 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.
Authorities encourage the public to report suspicious activity related to human smuggling by calling 866-347-2423 or submitting anonymous tips via ICE’s online tip form.