Texas officials meet federal leaders to discuss ongoing border security efforts

Governor Greg Abbott, alongside the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard, continues to collaborate with federal authorities to address border security issues. This effort is part of Operation Lone Star, a multi-agency initiative aimed at curbing illegal immigration and transnational criminal activities.

Since its inception, Operation Lone Star has resulted in over 531,600 apprehensions of illegal immigrants and more than 51,300 criminal arrests. The operation has also led to the seizure of over 626 million lethal doses of fentanyl. Governor Abbott emphasizes that these actions are necessary due to what he describes as open border policies by the Biden Administration.

Recently, Governor Abbott joined Vice President JD Vance and other federal officials for a border security roundtable in Eagle Pass. "Texas serves as a model for border security," said Governor Abbott. He expressed gratitude towards Vice President Vance and others for their support in ongoing efforts to secure the border.

The Governor also met with the Texas Border Sheriff's Coalition in Austin to discuss continued cooperation with federal partners on homeland security operations. In Hidalgo County, Texas National Guard soldiers patrol remote areas along the Rio Grande River to track illegal immigrants.

In Cameron County, DPS troopers arrested two individuals after a high-speed pursuit involving suspected smugglers Benjamin Barbosa and Marcos Julian. Both face multiple charges related to smuggling and evading arrest.

Additionally, DPS agents apprehended Clarence Enyi Mfor from Cameroon in San Antonio. Mfor was on Texas' 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List for sexual assault charges.

To enhance border monitoring efforts, DPS uses drone technology equipped with heat sensors and game cameras. Sgt. Guadalupe Casarez explained how this technology helps detect smuggling activities along the southern border.

The Texas National Guard continues advanced training with Border Patrol and DPS personnel. This includes handcuff techniques and use-of-force protocols. A recent Memorandum of Understanding allows deputized Texas National Guard soldiers to make immigration arrests under Title 8 authority.

Recently, 60 soldiers were deputized in El Paso by U.S. Border Patrol Chief Walter N. Slosar, expanding their role in law enforcement operations along the southern border.