Authorities in southern Texas have successfully disrupted a human smuggling operation, rescuing 26 individuals, with 11 of them currently receiving medical treatment. The operation led to the arrest of 7 suspects involved in the illicit activity.
The rescued individuals were found to have endured harsh conditions during their journey, as stated by Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar during a news conference. The victims were believed to have been transported in a false truck compartment for at least three hours before being taken to a house lacking basic amenities such as air-conditioning and running water.
Authorities suspect that the house, where the victims were found, had been previously used for animal fighting. The living conditions were described as 'miserable' and 'blazing hot' by Sheriff Salazar.
The group of rescued individuals includes an 18-year-old woman and a woman from Guatemala who reportedly paid a significant sum to reach their destination. The nationalities of the other victims are yet to be determined.
Several individuals were taken to the hospital due to heat-related and minor medical injuries, with temperatures in San Antonio reaching up to 102 degrees Fahrenheit on the day of the rescue.
Sheriff Salazar emphasized that the responsibility lies with the criminal organizations behind such smuggling operations, putting vulnerable individuals at risk.
The incident occurred shortly after President Joe Biden announced a new executive action aimed at restricting asylum for migrants crossing the US-Mexico border illegally. The measure has faced criticism from various quarters, drawing comparisons to policies implemented during the previous administration.
