CBP Enhances Security in El Paso in Preparation for Wave of Illegal Aliens; Funding for Physical Barriers an Issue

EL PASO, Texas – Due to reports of the increasing numbers of migrants arriving in the Mexican city of Ciudad Juarez across from El Paso, CBP is currently enhancing security efforts in the area.

To ensure the ports of entry are not overrun by a large number of people attempting to enter the U.S. illegally, CBP has taken steps to harden its ports.

Currently, hardening materials are being deployed to the POEs in El Paso, Texas, to act as impediments to illegal crossers. These include concrete K-rails and concertina wire.  These are the same port hardening materials recently employed by CBP at border ports in California and southern Texas when experiencing similar issues.

“Members of the traveling public may notice that CBP is taking a proactive approach to prevent the unlawful entry of persons into the United States at our ports of entry,” said Hector Mancha, CBP Director of Field Operations in El Paso.  “Waiting until a large group of persons mass at the border to attempt an illegal crossing is too late for us; it is vital that we are prepared prior to when they arrive at the border crossing. The safety and security of our communities, members of the traveling public, international trade, CBP personnel and our facilities is paramount.”

At this time CBP is relying on existing El Paso port of entry personnel to support the hardening efforts. CBP continues to monitor the flow of caravan members and those from other nations who are attempting to enter the U.S. from Mexico.

CBP and Border Patrol agents asked Congress for $5.7 billion in funding for physical barriers that would have made defending the border easier, but the Democrat-controlled House, led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, denied their requests.