SAN ANTONIO – Three men have been arrested in connection with a human smuggling case in Bexar County where six people were rescued, according to Sheriff Javier Salazar.
BCSO’s Organized Crime Unit and SWAT executed warrants at three stash houses, one of which had six migrants, on Friday. BCSO said there were five men and one woman -- all from Honduras.
Deputies also found $10,000 in cash at one stash house, Salazar said.
Salazar said they arrested a 21-year-old man, a 31-year-old man and a 35-year-old man in connection with the case. The sheriff said he could not reveal the suspects’ identities at this time, but said they are likely connected with a cartel organization.
The stash houses were all near each other on the West and Northwest Sides in the following areas: 600 block of Benrus, 1000 block of Vance Jackson, and the 2900 block of Hillcrest. All were within incorporated areas of the county in San Antonio and Balcones Heights.
None of the migrants reported that they were being held captive or that anyone mistreated them. They were in liveable conditions, and BCSO said they were taken to a shelter to be helped with services.
One victim reportedly paid more than $12,000 to get to the San Antonio area, according to the sheriff.
Salazar said the three suspects face charges of human smuggling, engaging in organized crime and keeping a stash house. They are being taken to the Bexar County Jail.
If you see anything related to human smuggling or have any information, call BCSO at 210-335-4264 or email gang@bexar.org. You can remain anonymous.
KSAT will update you with the latest information as it becomes available.
Watch Salazar’s news conference below
