Agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) from the Deming and Las Cruces Stations have arrested 12 individuals after intercepting a reported smuggling operation. This information was shared in a February 11 post on X by El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Walter N. Slosar.

According to Slosar, the drivers involved in the smuggling will face prosecution, while the 12 individuals will be returned to their country of origin. He noted that the operation was a joint effort involving CBP agents from Deming and Las Cruces, along with police from Hatch, aimed at dismantling the smuggling scheme.

The Las Cruces Station, established in 1924, now covers approximately 3,943 square miles and employs more than two patrol inspectors alongside support personnel, as said on the CBP website dedicated to this station.

Screenshot of Walter N. Slosar's Feb. 11 post on X | X

The U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector is responsible for about 268 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border across West Texas and New Mexico. The New Mexico portion includes operations in Lordsburg, Deming, and Santa Teresa stations. Agents patrol various terrains including urban areas, deserts, and mountains to secure the border. The El Paso Sector in New Mexico processes individuals encountered along the border and collaborates with state and local law enforcement for security operations. The sector also utilizes surveillance technology to detect unauthorized crossings and other activities at the border.