The Texas National Guard has been granted additional authority to detain and apprehend illegal immigrants in the El Paso border region. This decision, backed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is part of ongoing efforts to curb unauthorized immigration into Texas.
The latest move gives Texas National Guard troops powers similar to those of federal immigration officers, allowing them to make direct arrests. The expansion of authority is expected to significantly boost border security operations and reduce illegal crossings into the state.
Governor Abbott’s Agreement with Customs and Border Protection
Earlier this month, Texas Governor Greg Abbott took to social media platform X to announce the new agreement. He stated:
“In an agreement I signed between Texas and Trump’s Customs and Border Protection, the Texas National Guard is granted the power of immigration officials to make immigration arrests. Effective immediately. This boosts manpower for border security.”
With this agreement, Texas has intensified its stance on border security, aiming to enhance law enforcement capabilities in regions that experience a high volume of illegal crossings.
Operation Lone Star: A Joint Effort for Border Protection
Operation Lone Star, Texas’ primary border security initiative, currently has about 5,000 National Guard soldiers deployed to support immigration enforcement efforts. Additionally, approximately 1,500 National Guard troops from other states have been sent to assist Texas in managing border security operations.
Governor Abbott’s call for nationwide support on immigration control was made two years ago, urging all state governors to contribute resources to address the ongoing border crisis. In response, all Republican-led states pledged their assistance, sending National Guard units, law enforcement officers, and essential equipment to reinforce border security.
Strong Support from Border Patrol and Law Enforcement
The decision to expand the Texas National Guard’s role in border enforcement has received strong backing from border security officials.
El Paso Sector Interim Chief Walter N. Slosar emphasized the importance of the National Guard’s role, stating:
“The brave men and women of the National Guard raised their hands today and swore an oath to defend this nation’s borders. They now stand alongside our Border Patrol Agents to enforce U.S. immigration laws and secure the border. Together, they secure our borders with the strength and commitment the American people deserve. We are proud to serve beside them in this mission.”
The collaboration between Border Patrol agents and the National Guard is expected to improve security measures, providing additional manpower to help monitor and control unauthorized border crossings.
What This Means for Border Security
With the Texas National Guard now having the power to detain and apprehend illegal immigrants, the border security framework in Texas has become more robust. Here are the key takeaways:
- More Personnel for Enforcement: The move allows the National Guard to act as a direct force in stopping illegal immigration, reducing the workload of federal agents.
- Immediate Implementation: Governor Abbott’s directive is already in effect, meaning the National Guard is actively detaining individuals attempting to enter illegally.
- Bipartisan Reactions: While Republican states support Abbott’s measures, critics argue that immigration enforcement should remain a federal responsibility.
Border Patrol Urges Public to Report Suspicious Activity
As part of the effort to strengthen border security, Border Patrol has requested the public’s assistance in identifying suspicious activities. They encourage individuals to report any concerns anonymously by calling 1-800-635-2509.
With border security remaining a critical issue in Texas and across the country, the new measures are expected to play a key role in addressing illegal immigration challenges.
Stay tuned for further updates on border enforcement policies and their impact on immigration control.
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