CBP reports nine months without releases at border amid continued decline in crossings

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Rodney S. Scott, Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection | Official website

CBP reports nine months without releases at border amid continued decline in crossings

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Today in Nogales, Arizona, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has recorded a ninth consecutive month without releasing any individuals apprehended at the border into the interior of the United States. Preliminary data for January indicates that both overall CBP encounters and U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions remain at historically low levels, with January marking the fourth straight month of declining border crossings.

“In President Trump’s first year back in office, we have delivered the most secure border in American history – and we did so in the immediate aftermath of the worst border crisis in history,” said Secretary Noem.” President Trump’s leadership and bold action have given this country a secure border that keeps breaking historic records.  January 2026 marked the fourth consecutive month of decline in the number of Border Patrol apprehensions at the southwest border, with just over 6,000; and it’s the ninth month in a row that Border Patrol has released ZERO illegal aliens into the interior of the country.

“Our agents and officers are delivering unprecedented results, with border crossings and apprehensions at levels not seen in CBP history,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott. “The men and women of CBP are demonstrating the impact of effective enforcement and unwavering commitment, ensuring the safety and security of our nation’s borders every single day.”

Final numbers for January will be released in coming weeks. The Department of Homeland Security states it remains focused on securing borders, safeguarding national interests, and enforcing laws.

CBP is described as America’s largest law enforcement organization, employing more than 67,000 people who work to protect U.S. borders on land, air, and sea while facilitating lawful travel and trade.

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