The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released its monthly update, reporting a decrease in migrant encounters along the southwest border in March. The Border Patrol recorded 137,480 encounters between ports of entry, which was 16% lower than in March 2023 and 45% lower than in December 2023. Despite being the lowest March for Border Patrol encounters under the Biden administration, the first six months of fiscal year 2024 saw a total of 1,340,801 encounters, exceeding the same period in fiscal year 2023. This decrease in encounters comes as Texas Governor Greg Abbott highlights his state’s program, Operation Lone Star, which aims to fill the gaps left by the Biden administration’s border security measures.
Abbott has been critical of the Biden administration’s immigration policies and has emphasized the importance of securing the southern border. Construction on the border wall continues in Zapata County, as Texas works to deter and repel illegal immigration. Operation Lone Star, a multi-agency effort, has resulted in over 507,200 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 41,500 criminal arrests, with over 36,900 felony charges. Abbott attributes these successes to the state’s efforts to address the challenges posed by an influx of migrants due to President Biden’s open border policies.
CBP Senior Official Troy A. Miller noted that while encounters at the southern border are currently lower, the agency remains prepared to respond to changes in migration patterns and criminal activities. Despite the decrease in encounters, CBP continues to take significant actions to disrupt criminal networks amid unprecedented migration activity. The monthly migrant encounter statistics gathered by CBP provide insight into the ongoing challenges faced at the border and the efforts taken to address them. The agency works in coordination with federal and foreign partners to manage operations and respond to evolving threats.
In a concerning development, the Department of Homeland Security announced that an Afghan national, who is on the U.S. terror watchlist, was taken back into custody after being captured at the U.S.-Mexico border and released onto American soil twice. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in the border security system and the need for stronger measures to identify and detain individuals posing a security risk. Governor Abbott’s criticism of the Biden administration’s handling of border security underscores the importance of addressing these gaps and ensuring the safety and security of the country.
As the situation at the border continues to evolve, it is essential for federal and state authorities to work together to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration and criminal activities. Governor Abbott’s focus on enhancing border security through programs like Operation Lone Star highlights the importance of proactive measures to deter and apprehend individuals crossing the border unlawfully. The efforts of CBP and other agencies to disrupt criminal networks demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding communities from threats posed by illegal immigration and trafficking. By addressing the root causes of migration and strengthening border security measures, authorities can better protect the country and its citizens from harm.
