Smuggling Stings: HSI's Pursuit of Smugglers on 'To Catch a Smuggler'
Tune in for a glimpse of the rigorous and often dangerous work that HSI agents perform to protect the United States from global threats.
National Geographic's To Catch a Smuggler television series provides viewers with a look at how HSI special agents work alongside U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers to detect and dismantle complex smuggling operations. These operations often involve the illegal movement of drugs, weapons, counterfeit goods and even the trafficking of human beings.
By showcasing real-life cases, the series takes viewers to major airports, seaports and border crossings where HSI special agents and CBP officers are on the front line, intercepting dangerous contraband, rescuing trafficking victims, and arresting individuals attempting to break the law.
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What does Contraband Mean?
Contraband means any goods that are brought into or taken out of a country illegally. This can include things like drugs, weapons or other items that are not allowed by law.
In each episode, HSI's special agents and CBP officers use advanced technology, sharp instincts and strategic planning to uncover hidden caches of drugs, counterfeit merchandise, illegal wildlife, people and more.
Whether it's a passenger exhibiting suspicious behavior or a shipment flagged for inspection, HSI gives you a peek into their investigations, piecing together clues that often lead to larger criminal networks. The episodes don't just focus on the action; they also delve into the intricate work that goes into building a case, gathering evidence, conducting interviews and making arrests.
Educating the Public
HSI has been involved in To Catch a Smuggler since 2012 as part of a broader effort to educate the American public about the agency's vital role in national security. By allowing cameras to follow their operations, HSI aims to raise awareness about the diverse and complex nature of smuggling and other crimes that threaten the safety and security of the United States.
The show not only highlights the day-to-day duties of HSI agents but also sheds light on the wider impact of their work for businesses, consumers and the overall safety of our nation.
While To Catch a Smuggler focuses primarily on smuggling-related crimes, HSI's mission extends well beyond this area. HSI is tasked with investigating a wide range of illegal activities, including child exploitation, cybercrime, financial crimes, human rights violations and wildlife trafficking. HSI also plays a crucial role in export enforcement, ensuring that sensitive technology and weapons do not fall into the wrong hands.
The show's spotlight on HSI special agents in action provides a glimpse into the expansive mission of the agency, demonstrating the lengths to which our employees go to protect the country from both domestic and international threats.
Impact and Reach
Since its debut, To Catch a Smuggler has amassed nearly 18 million viewers. The show plays a key role in informing the public about the dangers of smuggling and the importance of border security.
Upcoming Episodes
Here’s a sneak peek into Season 8's HSI-featured episodes:
- Episode 1: Unholy Guacamole (HSI San Diego / HSI Los Angeles)
Air Date: Sept. 2, 2024
Summary: HSI follows a cargo truck from San Diego to Los Angeles and uncovers cocaine hidden inside a shipment of frozen avocado pulp.
- Episode 3: Blitzed at the Border (HSI San Diego)
Air Date: Sept. 11, 2024
HSI agents conduct a sting operation to apprehend fentanyl traffickers in San Diego.
- Episode 4: No Rest for the Wicked (HSI San Diego)
Air Date: Sept. 25, 2024
Summary: HSI San Diego tracks a suspicious vehicle for 48 hours, leading them to a stash house.
- Episode 5: Spiced and Loaded (HSI San Diego)
Air Date: Oct. 2, 2024
Summary: HSI San Diego follows a suspicious automobile that crossed the border transporting methamphetamine.
- Episode 6: Drugs, Bugs, and the Big Buy-Bust (HSI Los Angeles)
Air Date: Oct. 9, 2024
Summary: HSI Los Angeles make an arrest connected to the importation of illegal gun parts and set up an undercover drug buy-bust operation.
- Episode 8: Meth Inside the Machine (HSI El Paso / HSI New Mexico)
Air Date: Oct. 23, 2024
Summary: HSI arrests human smugglers after following transport cars in El Paso and discovers overcrowded and rundown stash houses in New Mexico.
To Catch a Smuggler airs on Sept. 2 and every Wednesday night from Sept. 4 to Oct. 23, 2024, on the National Geographic Channel.