
Authorities in Coral Gables, Florida, have detained several individuals believed to be involved in a human smuggling operation after police intercepted a U-Haul van carrying suspected migrants from China. The vehicle was stopped earlier today close to the Snapper Creek Bridge following a tip from at least one concerned citizen, according to Local 10 News.
Following the arrest, the individuals, most of whom are suspected to be Chinese nationals, were transferred to a Coral Gables trolley where they were assessed by law enforcement officers. The U.S. Border Patrol was among the agencies responding to the scene. Officials are still investigating the incident and the identities of the suspected smugglers have yet to be released.
In a related event, CBS News Miami shared details of a reported abduction that led to the discovery of 21 migrants inside an a U-Haul truck in southern Coral Gables. Coral Gables Police Chief Edward James Hudak Jr. revealed that a security guard first noted what appeared to be an abduction on Old Cutler Road, which swiftly prompted a "be on the lookout" alert from the responding patrol officer.
"Officers opened the back of the truck and found 21 individuals inside, predominantly Chinese nationals, along with Ecuadorian and Cuban nationals," said Hudak in a statement obtained by CBS News Miami. The migrants are believed to have reached the U.S. by boat before being loaded into the cargo truck. Along with the migrants, law enforcement found identification documents and electronic devices within the vehicle.
The investigation into both incidents is ongoing as authorities continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the smuggling operation and the alleged abduction. Further updates are expected as the Coral Gables police and federal agencies delve into the intricacies of this case and work to ensure the safety and rights of those involved are preserved.