Texas National Guard soldiers deputized by U.S. Border Patrol Chief

Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard continue their collaborative efforts with the Trump Administration to secure the U.S.-Mexico border. This joint initiative aims to curb the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas and to counter transnational criminal activities.

Since Operation Lone Star began, over 531,400 illegal immigrants have been apprehended, resulting in more than 50,900 criminal arrests and over 43,600 felony charges. In response to the fentanyl crisis, Texas law enforcement has seized over 625 million lethal doses of fentanyl as part of this border mission.

The state's historic border security mission has reportedly reduced illegal crossings by over 90%. As a result, fewer migrants are being transported to sanctuary cities. Since April 2022, Texas has transported significant numbers of migrants to various cities across the United States.

Operation Lone Star continues its efforts to address what it perceives as challenges posed by current federal policies. The Governor's Office recently shared footage on social media showing additional buoys being installed in the Rio Grande River as part of ongoing deterrence measures.

Governor Abbott highlighted that Texas' border security mission serves as a model for federal actions under former President Donald Trump. The state remains committed to working with federal partners to secure the border.

In recent developments within Operation Lone Star, DPS troopers arrested Junior Adalid Montoya-Alvarez in Webb County for smuggling persons and discovered his existing warrant for sexual assault. Additionally, two criminal fugitives were arrested in Hidalgo and El Paso counties.

DPS teams also seized 187 pounds of narcotics from three Mexican nationals who attempted to smuggle them across the Rio Grande River in Cameron County. These individuals were handed over to federal authorities for prosecution.

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks recently deputized over 300 Texas National Guard soldiers to assist in enforcing immigration laws at high-traffic areas along the southern border. More soldiers are expected to be deputized soon.

Texas National Guard's use of advanced technology continues to aid border security efforts. This week saw drones and surveillance systems help apprehend illegal immigrants along the Rio Grande River near El Paso and Roma.