United States Border Patrol Chief, Jason Owens, recently used the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to report that December has been a particularly challenging month for migrants attempting to cross the border. He highlighted the ongoing risk of death and the necessity for rescue operations associated with illegal entry into America.

Owens stated, "This month alone (December 2023), USBP agents have performed over 240 rescues and recovered 14 dead bodies of people who have succumbed to the elements, while attempting to illegally enter the U.S. The dangers along are very real. The journey is unforgiving."

The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website, which provides data on border rescues and mortality rates, suggests that cartels prioritize their financial interests over the health risks of migrants. It reports instances where migrants are left in desolate areas without protection from harsh environmental conditions.

As per its mandate, CBP maintains records on border rescues and deaths for congressional reporting purposes. In 2017, it established the Missing Migrant Program (MMP) to assist in locating migrants reported as "lost" by their families and to compile data on southwest border deaths. CBP acknowledges that its data may differ from those published by other organizations tracking similar information.

The latest available data for fiscal year 2021 shows a significant increase in rescue incidents conducted by CBP. The agency reported 3,423 rescue incidents compared to 1,196 in 2020. In comparison, there were 1,274 rescue incidents in fiscal year 2019 and 1,326 recorded in fiscal year 2018.

In terms of migrant deaths during fiscal year 2021, according to CBP's records: there were 43 migrants who died while not in custody (not reportable), while there were a total of 108 deaths among those who were in custody from both reportable and not reportable circumstances.