The United States Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced on Mar. 20 that February marked the tenth consecutive month with no releases of illegal aliens at the border, continuing a trend of historically low border crossings. The agencies also reported that drug seizures in February reached their highest level since October 2021.
This development is significant as it reflects ongoing efforts to secure the nation's borders and address concerns about illegal immigration and drug smuggling. The data shows a sustained decline in illegal border crossings, with daily apprehensions down 95% from the previous administration and thirteen straight months of fewer than 9,000 southwest border apprehensions.
"Ten straight months of ZERO illegal aliens released at the border. President Trump promised to secure the Border, and that is a promise we delivered," said Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. "We have the most secure border in American history. Our borders are CLOSED to lawbreakers."
CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott said, "February marks the tenth straight month that U.S. Border Patrol has not released a single illegal alien into the interior of the United States — a clear reflection of the enforcement-first posture restoring integrity to our nation’s borders." He added, "While threats to our national and economic security continue to evolve, so does our resolve to meet them, as we carry out our mission of protecting the homeland while facilitating lawful travel and trade."
In addition to immigration enforcement, CBP reported seizing 79,609 pounds of drugs nationwide in February—an increase of 84% from January—highlighting its role in combating narcotics smuggling. The agency also continues efforts against forced labor and counterfeit goods while protecting U.S. agriculture.
CBP describes itself as America's frontline law enforcement organization with over 67,000 personnel working across land, air, and sea to enforce safe travel and trade while supporting economic prosperity.
