2 Arrested Posing as Construction Workers to Enter US Illegally

Customs and Border Protection says the suspects were caught near the Paso del Norte International Port of Entry.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:31pm

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Two people were arrested after they attempted to unlawfully enter the United States by dressing up as construction workers and blending in with other workers, according to Customs and Border Protection. The suspects were arrested just west of the Paso del Norte International Port of Entry on January 9.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to monitor construction zones and prevent illegal border crossings, especially in the El Paso sector where infrastructure projects have created multiple construction sites that could be exploited.

The details

Officials said one of the arrested individuals had a previous criminal record of domestic assault and would be prosecuted under reentry of a removed alien, while the other will be prosecuted for illegal entry without inspection. CBP stated that people who cross illegally in or around these construction projects will face federal charges and removal, consistent with the 100-percent prosecution policy in this sector.

  • The two people were arrested on January 9.

The players

Ryan Ellison

Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico.

Jesse D. Munoz

El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

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What they’re saying

“People who cross illegally in or around these construction projects will face federal charges and removal, consistent with the 100-percent prosecution policy in this sector. Strict enforcement enhances safety for construction workers, agents, and the public while this critical infrastructure is being built.”

— Ryan Ellison, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico

“These construction zones will continue to be heavily monitored by our Border Patrol agents and unlawful entry will not be tolerated. Individuals attempting to enter the United States unlawfully in construction zones or anywhere in the El Paso Sector are subject to immediate detection, prosecution and removal.”

— Jesse D. Munoz, El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

What’s next

The judge will determine if the suspects will be allowed bail or held in custody as their cases proceed through the legal system.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by U.S. authorities in securing the border, particularly in areas with active construction projects that could be exploited by those seeking to enter the country illegally. The zero-tolerance policy and heightened monitoring of construction zones aim to deter such attempts and maintain public safety.