By Warren Kulo
on December 23, 2015 at 3:20 PM, updated December 23, 2015 at 3:25 PM

GULFPORT, Mississippi -- A Mexican national illegally in the U.S. was arraigned in U.S. District Court in Gulfport last Friday, charged with transporting other illegal aliens.

According to the U.S. Border Patrol, agents assigned to the New Orleans Sector arrested Roberto Esquivel-Alonso, 41, on Nov. 15 on U.S. 90 in Gulfport.

Agents had observed two SUV's traveling together, with Esquivel-Alonso driving one vehicle -- a 2007 Chevrolet Suburban -- and an accomplice driving the other, a 2001 GMC Yukon.

Inside the vehicles, Border Patrol agents found 10 passengers -- five in each SUV -- and all were found to be illegal aliens from Mexico. Two of the passengers were minors. Esquivel-Alonso was arrested at the scene and the 11 others were detained. The two vehicles were impounded.

If convicted, Esquivel-Alonso faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

"As this arrest illustrates, the U.S. Border Patrol New Orleans Sector supports the National Border Patrol Strategy to heighten security throughout the Gulf Coast Corridor," said Chief Border Patrol Agent Jonathan Richards.

"Through our ongoing enforcement efforts, we seek to cause a persistent change in the tactics, techniques and procedures of criminal organizations operating within this corridor. These efforts should help to keep our communities safe and secure."

The New Orleans Sector is part of the South Texas Campaign, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations. The New Orleans Sector's enforcement posture supports that campaign by reducing the ability of criminal organizations to exploit transportation routes within the area, and degrades their ability to conduct criminal acts.

"Our strategic intent is to enhance border security in the Gulf Coast region by providing actionable intelligence in support of our Southwest Border partners," said Chief Border Patrol Agent Jonathan Richards.

Citizens spotting suspicious activity are asked to contact the Border Patrol via a toll-free number at 866-507-7683.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi...gned_in_g.html