NEW YORK, United States (CMC) – The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency says officers at the Cannon Corners, Champlain border crossing in upstate New York have arrested a Canadian citizen for attempting to conceal an illegal Vincentian national in the spare tire compartment of a vehicle.

On Friday, CBP said agents detected inconsistencies during a driver’s inspection on Thursday that led to further inspection of the vehicle.

“As officers inspected the trunk, they discovered a woman hiding in the spare tire compartment,” CBP said.

“The 32-year-old woman was determined to be a citizen of St Vincent and the Grenadines, was processed for removal from the United States and returned to Canada,” it added.

The smuggler, a 42-year-old woman and Canadian citizen, was arrested by officers.

“Our skilled CBP officers are familiar with all methods of human and contraband concealment,” said Champlain Port Director Steven Bronson.

“I am proud of the commitment and dedication of our officers as they continue to keep our country and communities safe from those attempting to evade inspection”.

After arrest and processing by CBP officers, the Canadian woman was remanded to the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office Jail, awaiting prosecution for “alien smuggling”, CBP said.