U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has released its operational statistics for December 2024, highlighting significant developments in border security and enforcement. According to Pete Flores, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner, CBP's efforts have led to a notable impact on community safety and national security. "In the last six months of 2024, Border Patrol apprehensions along the southwest border have decreased more than 70% from the same period in 2023," Flores stated.
Since executive actions by the Biden-Harris Administration began in June, unlawful border crossings have significantly decreased. The data shows a 60% drop in encounters between ports of entry along the southwest border from May to December. These figures are at their lowest since August 2020.
The measures taken have also resulted in an increase in migrant removals and a decrease in individuals released pending removal proceedings. Since June 5, DHS has tripled the percentage of noncitizens processed for Expedited Removal and reduced those released pending court proceedings by 89%.
From June through December, over 271,000 individuals were removed or returned to more than 160 countries. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted over 860 international repatriation flights during this period.
Fiscal year 2024 saw DHS completing over 700,000 removals and returns—the highest number since fiscal year 2010—including a record number of removals to countries other than Mexico.
On the northern border, expanded enforcement efforts resulted in an encounter reduction of over 85% between ports of entry from June to December. In particular, encounters dropped by 89% in the Swanton Sector during this time frame.
December statistics show approximately 47,330 encounters recorded by U.S. Border Patrol along the southwest border—a figure that is down by 81% compared to December 2023.
The CBP One mobile application continues to be instrumental as part of DHS's strategy to encourage lawful entry into the United States. In December alone, nearly 44,000 individuals were processed with information submitted via CBP One.
Efforts against drug smuggling remain strong; CBP seized nearly 50,000 pounds of fentanyl over two fiscal years—enough for more than two billion lethal doses—and seized substantial amounts again in December.
CBP is also focused on trade facilitation while combating illicit goods entering supply chains through forced labor or counterfeit products valued at billions annually.
As America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel nationwide engaged across multiple domains including air travel facilitation and agriculture protection efforts continue ensuring economic prosperity alongside national security goals.
