Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard, continues to work closely with the Trump Administration in a concerted effort to bolster border security. This ongoing operation is designed to impede the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas and to counteract transnational criminal activities.

The initiative, known as Operation Lone Star, has led to notable achievements since its inception. Over 531,700 illegal immigrants have been apprehended, accompanied by more than 51,800 criminal arrests, of which 44,100 are felony charges. The operation has also made significant strides in addressing the fentanyl crisis, with law enforcement seizing more than 637 million lethal doses of the drug.

"Every individual who is apprehended or arrested and every ounce of drugs seized would have otherwise made their way into communities across Texas and the nation due to open border policies," the operation states.

Recently, Governor Abbott appeared on Sean Hannity's program on Fox News, crediting President Trump with maintaining secure borders. "President Trump promised he would secure the border, and in fact, he's done that," he stated. Highlighting a historical low in illegal border crossings at Eagle Pass, Abbott contrasted current policies with those of the previous administration under President Joe Biden.

In field activities, Texas National Guard soldiers, as part of the effort, patrol the Rio Grande. Governor Abbott released images of soldiers in action near McAllen, asserting a decrease in border crossings, attributed to these security measures.

DPS units have also played an active role. Mounted patrols and K-9 teams were instrumental in the recent apprehension of illegal immigrants in Dimmit and Webb Counties. Last week, DPS troopers arrested a confirmed Valluco gang member, Michael Anthony Montoya, Jr., in Cameron County after a vehicle pursuit; the suspect was found with 200 pounds of marijuana.

Additionally, troopers arrested a 16-year-old Gulf Cartel guide in Hidalgo County and Jeremy Duane Ervin in Maverick County for smuggling activities. Ervin admitted to being paid for transporting illegal immigrants, which were later referred to Border Patrol.

Last week, the Border Patrol deputized 55 Texas National Guard soldiers, supplementing the hundreds deputized recently, thereby expanding their authority and improving operational efficiency in border security efforts. This move is seen as enhancing morale and execution of duties in border protection.

In a related development, Texas National Guard soldiers continue their oversight on Fronton Island, once a hotbed for cartel activities. As shared by Specialist Joshua Rendon, these efforts signify a proactive approach to deter criminal activities and ensure safety. "I do believe I'm making a difference when I'm out there," he reported.

Governor Abbott has emphasized on continuing to secure key areas to thwart cartel influence and improve community safety.