Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard are continuing their joint efforts to secure the state's border. Operation Lone Star, which aims to curb illegal immigration and combat smuggling activities, has resulted in over 526,600 apprehensions of illegal immigrants and more than 48,700 criminal arrests since its inception. The operation has also seen law enforcement seize over 553 million lethal doses of fentanyl.

The state claims a reduction in illegal crossings by over 86% due to these measures. As part of its transportation program for migrants, Texas has relocated thousands to various cities across the United States.

Governor Abbott emphasized on social media that Texas' actions have brought national attention to border issues. He also shared images showing preparations by the Texas National Guard for potential mass migration events.

Recent highlights from Operation Lone Star include various incidents such as a human smuggler's arrest in Hidalgo County and the discovery of two illegal immigrants hidden inside a gas tank in Webb County. In both cases, DPS troopers intervened and referred those involved to Border Patrol.

The Texas National Guard's drone teams have reportedly deterred more than 650 attempted crossings recently. These teams utilize advanced technology to monitor and alert ground units about incoming groups attempting illegal entry.

Training exercises involving Texas National Guard soldiers and DPS troopers continue as part of efforts to ensure effective responses to illegal immigration attempts along the border. Additionally, Task Force West is actively installing anti-climb barriers in El Paso as part of deterrent strategies against unauthorized entries.

Sergeant Mark Lester Landicho expressed gratitude for public support during these operations: "Whenever the engineering company is on the line putting up the fences, [the security platoon's] main job is to protect the soldiers and keep us safe from harm," he stated.