The U.S. Border Patrol’s San Diego Sector has reported a sharp decline in illegal border crossings at the start of fiscal year 2026, according to statistics released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The sector recorded 1,793 apprehensions during the first two months of the fiscal year, marking a 93% drop compared to the same period last year, when there were 24,735 apprehensions. This level of activity is reportedly the lowest since the 1960s.
Chief Patrol Agent Justin De La Torre attributed this reduction to stronger border security policies and an end to releasing individuals into the United States after illegal entry. “By no longer releasing people into the U.S., we have removed the incentive for those considering illegal entry via smuggling routes,” De La Torre said. “We no longer have people illegally entering and surrendering to agents, expecting to be released, which allows Border Patrol agents to return to patrol and interdiction efforts rather than processing and releasing hundreds of illegal aliens a day.”
De La Torre also credited support from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting cases of illegal entry and expedited removals as effective deterrents. He stated: “Less money is going to the criminal organizations that facilitate human smuggling and generate violence in Mexico. We are now seeing far fewer people being exploited and endangering their lives by using criminal smuggling networks to illegally enter the country.”
Additional factors contributing to these results include increased border wall infrastructure and technology, collaborations with local, state, federal agencies, international partners, and the Department of War. The sector is currently constructing about 14 miles of additional barrier along its eastern area bordering Mexico.
On narcotics enforcement, De La Torre highlighted that San Diego Sector had seized record amounts in fiscal year 2025—11,311 pounds of methamphetamine—and has already confiscated significant quantities in early fiscal 2026: 970 pounds of methamphetamine, 555 pounds of cocaine, and 113 pounds of fentanyl.
“This significant reduction in illegal border crossings underscores the value of strong border security policy and a whole-of-government approach,” said De La Torre. “I am extremely proud of our Border Patrol agents for their relentless efforts to disrupt criminal smuggling networks and keep our nation secure.”
The U.S. Border Patrol continues its efforts against illicit human and drug smuggling along exit corridors away from national borders. Individuals can report suspicious activity by contacting local authorities or calling San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.
CBP remains one of America’s largest law enforcement organizations with more than 67,000 employees responsible for safeguarding land, air, and sea borders while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
