BREAKING NEWS: U.S. Border Patrol Investigates International Engineer Over Alleged Tax Evasion in New Mexico

By Staff Reporter | Albuquerque, New Mexico | November 4, 2025

The United States Border Patrol, the uniformed law enforcement arm of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has launched a formal investigation into international electrical engineer Herbert O. Hitzig over allegations of tax evasion linked to multi-million-dollar commercial contracts in New Mexico.

Mr. Hitzig, widely recognized for his electrical upgrade projects with the Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC), was reportedly detained at Albuquerque International Sunport on the morning of Monday, November 3, while attempting to depart the state.

According to sources within the Border Patrol, Mr. Hitzig allegedly failed to declare substantial income derived from NTEC-related engineering work in New Mexico. Investigators claim that, while he received significant payments for his services, he failed to fulfill his federal tax obligations under U.S. law.

During a customs screening, officers reportedly discovered a negotiable instrument, specifically, a wire transfer valued in the millions of dollars. Preliminary estimates place his outstanding tax liability at approximately $300,000 USD.

Following early negotiations between Mr. Hitzig’s legal counsel, attorney Douglas M., and federal authorities, the figure was provisionally reduced to $260,000 USD under a temporary agreement. The balance must be settled within 30 days to avoid further legal action.

In the interim, Mr. Hitzig’s travel documents have been suspended to ensure compliance with the agreement.

A CBP spokesperson confirmed the investigation and stated:
“While Mr. Hitzig is cooperating with investigators, all individuals engaged in high-value business transactions within the United States are required to comply fully with federal tax laws. Failure to disclose or report taxable income may result in severe penalties, including asset forfeiture and criminal prosecution.”

Mr. Hitzig is currently being processed at the Southeast Area Command of the Albuquerque Police Department, pending additional inquiries. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether formal criminal charges will be filed, but emphasized that the matter remains a high-priority case.
This investigation underscores the U.S. government’s ongoing commitment to financial transparency and tax enforcement, particularly among foreign nationals and international contractors operating within U.S. borders.

A press conference by the U.S. Border Patrol is expected later this week to provide further details on the ongoing inquiry.
The case remains under active investigation.