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During the fiscal year that ended in September 1998, U.S. Border Patrol agents processed 1,618 cases of human smuggling that involved more than 10,000 undocumented immigrants. During the previous year, 1,279 cases involved 6,557 immigrants.

As the number of illegals crossing into the United States increases, their methods for arriving at U.S. destinations multiplies exponentially.

Vehicles of every description have been traditionally employed to move human cargo. Smuggled illegals have tried to reach the economic promised land in sealed containers, by tying themselves to undercarriages or by hiding in wheel wells, engine compartments and even in trucks and suitcases.

Today, tractor-trailers ferrying illegals into the United States are being intercepted in increasing numbers. Additionally, more and more rented trucks are being employed for smuggling the human contraband.

But as smuggling rings have become more sophisticated, their strategies have become more creative.

After American cyclist Lance Armstrong won the 1999 Tour de France, Texas highways were ablaze with color as Lone Star Lance-ophiles donned their cycling jerseys and began riding fast-moving bicycles across the landscape.

For the full story, see the Dec. 4 print edition of Transport Topics. .