Additional razor wire and fencing are being installed along the southern border in Texas, in an area that is now under state control. Texas state troopers have recently started making arrests, capturing migrants who illegally crossed the razor wire barrier in Shelby Park. This marks a major change in policy, as the migrants will now be charged with criminal trespassing and held in jail until sentencing.
While some may question this approach and argue that it is a waste of resources to arrest and book migrants only to later turn them over to the Biden administration, who may ultimately release them, Texas officials emphasize that it is important to take action against illegal border crossings. Once the migrants have been processed and sentenced, they will be handed over to ICE, which will then decide whether to proceed with deportation.
Recent developments show a decline in the number of migrants attempting to cross into Texas. While a few weeks ago, Texas DPS reported up to 4,000 migrants in and around Shelby Park, that number has now decreased to about 700. Smaller groups of migrants, typically comprised of about five people, have been encountered by Texas National Guard, who promptly order them back to Mexico.
In an effort to further fortify the border, Texas has installed additional razor wire fencing on top of cargo containers. This initiative has received support from local officials, with a Democratic candidate for Maverick County Commission expressing gratitude to Governor Abbott for his efforts in securing Shelby Park.
Texas DPS has also noted the cooperation they have been receiving from the Mexican state of Cowalia. When migrants are caught attempting to illegally cross into the United States on trains, Cowalia sends them back on buses headed south.
These developments highlight the ongoing challenges at the southern border and the various measures being taken to address the situation. While the arrests and fortification efforts may attract debate and differing opinions, Texas officials maintain that they are committed to enforcing border security and safeguarding their communities. The cooperation from the Mexican state of Cowalia is also seen as a step towards better coordination and collaboration in addressing the issue of illegal border crossings. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in curbing the flow of unauthorized migration.
