The Swanton Sector Border sector on the northern border has experienced a significant increase in apprehensions in the last fiscal year, with 15,000 individuals being apprehended in the first 10 months of fiscal year 2024. This marks the largest volume ever recorded by the sector, with over 14,000 more apprehensions than were recorded in fiscal year 2021. The sector, which spans 295 miles of the border with Canada, has seen its numbers of apprehensions in just part of this fiscal year exceed the previous 13 years combined. Illegal migrants from 85 different countries have attempted to illegally cross in the area, highlighting the diversity of individuals attempting to enter the U.S.
Illegal immigration has been a top issue for voters leading up to the November election, with many polls showing dissatisfaction with the record amount of illegal crossings at the southern border between 2021 and 2023. While the southern border has received much attention, the northern border has also seen a surge in illegal entries and apprehensions in the current fiscal year. There were a record number of 190,000 migrants apprehended at the U.S. border in FY 2023, with 162,865 individuals being apprehended at the border with Canada so far this fiscal year. This increase in apprehensions is concerning for border security and presents challenges for enforcement agencies.
The report also highlighted a concerning trend of known or suspected terrorists (KSTs) attempting to enter the U.S. from Canada between 2021 and 2023. Close to 1,100 KSTs have been apprehended at the northern border during this time period, making up a significant percentage of the over 1,700 total KSTs apprehended nationwide since FY 2021. This raises concerns about the potential security threats posed by individuals attempting to enter the country illegally from Canada. CBP and the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on this issue.
Residents living along the border are expressing fear and concern about future attacks and security threats under the Biden-Harris administration. The ongoing border crisis has impacted communities near the border, with residents feeling vulnerable and worried about the influx of illegal immigration and the potential consequences for their safety. The lack of effective border security measures has contributed to these fears, prompting calls for stronger enforcement and protection of the border to address these concerns.
As the situation along the northern border continues to worsen, it is important for authorities to address the challenges posed by increased illegal entries and apprehensions. The surge in apprehensions in the Swanton Sector Border sector highlights the need for enhanced border security measures and enforcement to prevent further illegal crossings. Addressing the issues at the northern border is crucial for maintaining national security and protecting communities from potential threats posed by illegal immigration, including known or suspected terrorists attempting to enter the country illegally. Efforts to strengthen border security and improve enforcement capabilities are essential to addressing the ongoing border crisis and ensuring the safety of residents along the border.
