FBI seeking woman with information on kidnapping-for-ransom plot that targeted immigrants

San Antonio FBI office looking for 22-year-old Brittany Pena

LAREDO, Texas – Last week, authorities in Laredo discovered what they believe to be a kidnapping-for-ransom plot that targeted people suspected of living in the country illegally.

The FBI and Laredo Resident Agency Office is asking the public for help in gathering more information on the alleged kidnapping scheme. They believe a 22-year-old woman named Brittany Pena has more information on the plot and are trying to locate Pena.

According to a release from the FBI, officials with the Border Patrol Missing Migrant Program reported the alleged kidnapping scheme to the FBI on Feb. 8. 

A multi-agency investigation revealed that at least three people in Laredo kidnapped several individuals suspected of living in the country illegally, contacted the victims' families demanding ransoms to secure their release and threatened them with weapons. The victims, according to the FBI, were held in captivity for several days and provided little food.

The public is urged to contact San Antonio FBI at 210-225-6741 with any information about
Brittany Pena or the alleged kidnapping scheme.