As the number of migrants crossing into the U.S. illegally continues to increase, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced that it will temporarily suspend and reduce vehicle processing at ports of entry in Texas and Arizona. This action is in response to a surge in migrant encounters along the southern border.
The CBP stated that vehicle processing operations at Eagle Pass International Bridge 1 in Eagle Pass, Texas, will be temporarily suspended, while vehicle processing in Lukeville, Arizona, will be reduced. These measures are being taken to allow CBP to redirect personnel to assist the U.S. Border Patrol in taking migrants into custody.
“In response to this influx in encounters, we will continue to surge all available resources to expeditiously and safely process migrants,” the CBP statement read. “We will maximize consequences against those without a legal basis to remain in the United States. CBP will continue to prioritize our border security mission as necessary in response to this evolving situation.”
Multiple sectors along the U.S.-Mexico border have experienced significant increases in migrant encounters in recent weeks. The Tucson Sector in Arizona reported a record-breaking 15,300 illegal crossings last week, the highest weekly total ever recorded. Along with the crossings, agents also seized 117 lbs. of fentanyl, filed 78 federal criminal cases, made 17 rescues, and intercepted 14 human smuggling events and three narcotics events.
The sector is consistently overwhelmed with 2,000 to 2,500 illegal crossings per day, with migrants coming from various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
In response to the bridge closure, Eagle Pass city officials posted a notice on social media, clarifying that the decision was made by the federal government and not the city itself. Northbound operations from Mexico to the United States will be suspended, while southbound operations will remain unaffected.
The situation at the U.S.-Mexico border continues to be a major challenge for authorities, with the surge in migrant crossings overwhelming resources and raising concerns about national security and immigration policies. The federal government and Border Patrol are working to address the evolving situation and ensure the expeditious and safe processing of migrants while prioritizing border security.
