Human Smuggler Arrested in Texas With Guns, Drugs and Migrants

Texas Ramps Up Border Security: Smugglers Arrested in Operation Lone Star

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, in collaboration with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard, is intensifying efforts to combat human smuggling, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration through Operation Lone Star. The initiative, launched to address federal shortcomings in border security, has yielded significant results in the past seven days, including the apprehension of dangerous smugglers.

Smuggler's Reckless Pursuit Ends in Arrest

A scary chase unfolded on Interstate 35 in La Salle County, Texas when DPS Troopers chased Kevin Cruz Diaz, a smuggler from El Salvador. Diaz was driving a stolen black Ford F-150, recklessly sped down both shoulders of the highway, endangering lives as he attempted to get away. The pursuit ended after Troopers deployed tire spikes, leading to Diaz’s arrest, (Watch the attached video of the intense pursuit below.)

Diaz faces multiple charges, including ten counts of smuggling persons with a firearm, evading arrest, theft of a firearm, and possession of controlled substances. Among the ten migrants smuggled in the vehicle were individuals from Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, all turned over to the Border Patrol.

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Operation Lone Star’s Impact on Border Security

Since its inception, Operation Lone Star has been pivotal in addressing the surge of illegal activity at the Texas border. According to Governor Abbott’s office, the operation has:

• Apprehended over 529,500 illegal immigrants.
• Made more than 49,400 criminal arrests, including 42,500 felony charges.
• Seized 588 million lethal doses of fentanyl, enough to kill the populations of the U.S. and Mexico combined.

By reinforcing border barriers, installing razor wire, and deploying advanced surveillance, Texas has reduced illegal crossings by 87%. This proactive approach downplays criminal activity and decreases the burden on sanctuary cities across the U.S.

High-Speed Chases: A Common Danger

Incidents like the one involving Diaz are becoming more frequent along Texas highways like I-35 and I-20. Smugglers often resort to reckless driving, posing significant risks to innocent motorists. The video footage from this recent pursuit highlights the gravity of the situation, underscoring the urgent need for more stringent border security.

A Call to Action

Governor Abbott remains steadfast in his commitment to safeguarding Texas communities. As federal policies leave critical gaps in border security, Operation Lone Star stands as a frontline defense against the influx of undocumented individuals, drugs, and firearms.

The success of these efforts demonstrates the importance of state-led initiatives in protecting Texans and reducing transnational crime.

[Watch the full video here for a firsthand look at the dangers of smuggling on Texas highways.]