The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced on July 16 that there have been 14 consecutive months of zero releases at the border, continuing what officials describe as a trend of historically low border crossings.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said, “Another month of historically low illegal border crossings demonstrates the success of President Trump’s decisive border security policies. We will not stop in our unwavering commitment to strengthen our nation’s security and keep Americans safe.”
Officials said that daily apprehensions are down 94% from the previous administration, with current levels not seen in over three decades. CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott said, “As I have said many times, leadership and policy matter. When laws are enforced, fewer people will break the law. Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Mullin, CBP is fully enforcing our immigration and border security laws. CBP has established meaningful border security resulting in sustained deterrence of illegal crossings. I am proud to report yet another decline in illegal border crossings this month.” Scott also said that CBP is preventing dangerous criminal aliens and illicit narcotics from entering communities.
CBP reported that illegal crossings in June remained historically low, while also noting ongoing efforts against drug smuggling by seizing narcotics before they reach American communities. Additional statistics on drug seizures can be found on their Drug Seizure Statistics webpage.
CBP also enforces U.S. trade law by targeting forced labor and counterfeit goods to safeguard economic interests, while agriculture specialists work to protect America’s agriculture and natural resources.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America’s frontline agency with more than 70,000 personnel protecting land borders, airspace, seas, travel routes, trade operations, and national economic prosperity.