U.S. Border Patrol's San Diego sector agents remain committed to their duties of apprehending migrants, confiscating narcotics, and rescuing distressed migrants, as stated by Chief Patrol Agent Patricia D. McGurk-Daniel. She announced this on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
In her announcement, McGurk-Daniel provided a detailed account of the week's activities: "Weekly Update, 1/3/24 – 1/9/24 -3,598 Apprehensions from 65 countries -62 Unaccompanied Minors Encountered -10 Rescues -11 Human Smuggling Events Interdicted SEIZED: -7lbs. Marijuana -$1,045 Bulk Currency -3 Firearms -11 Smuggling Conveyances."
The announcement followed the resumption of operations at the sector’s San Ysidro’s Pedestrian West on Jan. 2, as reported in a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) news release. The reopening coincided with the renewal of operations at Eagle Pass in Texas and Lukeville and Nogales in Arizona. Those interested in traveling to and from Mexico can check the operational status at CBP’s website for ports of entry.
In an official statement, CBP affirmed its commitment to border security: "CBP will continue to prioritize our border security mission as necessary in response to this evolving situation," adding that they are constantly assessing security situations and adjusting operational plans accordingly. The agency is focused on maximizing enforcement efforts against noncitizens who do not use lawful pathways or processes – such as scheduling an appointment via CBP One – and those without a legal basis to remain in the United States."
In December, CBP had temporarily suspended operations in San Ysidro to enable personnel to assist Border Patrol agents who were apprehending migrants. In another statement by the agency: "The U.S. is continuing to see increased levels of migrant encounters at the southwest border fueled by smugglers peddling disinformation to prey on vulnerable individuals and encourage migration. As we respond with additional resources and apply consequences for unlawful entry, the migration trends shift as well," adding that they continue to adjust their operational plans to maximize enforcement efforts against noncitizens who do not use lawful pathways or appointment processes such as CBP One.
According to a CBP report, agents have encountered 617,865 individuals since the start of this fiscal year on Oct. 1, 2023. The report also revealed that a total of 3,888 pounds of marijuana, along with 166 pounds of cocaine, nine pounds of heroin, 1,806 pounds of methamphetamine and 456 pounds of fentanyl have been seized.
