RGV, Texas, US – On February 19, 2026, a Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations Division remote drone pilot identified three illegal immigrants who had just crossed the Rio Grande in the early morning hours while attempting to avoid apprehension.

A DPS Trooper, working together with U.S. Border Patrol agents, located the group, consisting of one adult male, one adult female, and a 3-year-old child from Mexico.

During an interview, authorities observed the mother wearing six colored wristbands on each wrist. She stated the wristbands were placed on her in Mexico to cover both her and her child for crossing the Rio Grande. Officials said this practice is a common cartel tactic used to mark payment amounts and designated crossing areas between ports of entry.

The three individuals were turned over to U.S. Border Patrol.

Operation Lone Star continues to secure the Texas border through strong state and federal partnerships.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download