US Intensifies Southern Border Security Following Violent Incidents and Escalating Threats
The Department of Homeland Security has also reinstated the Migrant Protection Protocols to address the ongoing crisis.
US/MEXICO - In response to escalating violence and security threats along the southern border, the US government has bolstered security measures, deploying 1,500 troops and additional assets to the region.
The Department of Homeland Security has also reinstated the Migrant Protection Protocols to address the ongoing crisis. This action follows the recent shooting of a US/Canadian citizen in Jacumba, near the Mexico border, and the killing of a US Border Patrol agent in Vermont.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, "The Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) is a U.S. Government program, initiated in January 2019 pursuant to Section 235(b)(2)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Under MPP, the United States returns to Mexico certain citizens and nationals of countries other than Mexico while their U.S. removal proceedings are pending. MPP applies to those who arrive from Mexico by land."
U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) is working closely with the Department of Homeland Security to augment U.S. Customs and Border Protection efforts, with plans to nearly double the number of forces along the border
A statement by U.S. Northern Command said, "These approximately 1,500 active-duty personnel from the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps are deploying to the southern border to augment the approximately 2,500 service members already deployed supporting Customs and Border Protection’s southern border mission."
It added, "The exact number of personnel will fluctuate as units rotate personnel and as additional forces are tasked to deploy once planning efforts are finalized. Specific units will be announced as soon as more information is made available. These military forces will support enhanced detection and monitoring efforts and repair and emplace physical barriers."
NORTHCOM commander General Gregory M. Guillot said, "U.S. Northern Command is aggressively bolstering security at the southern border. For initial actions, Soldiers and Marines are immediately deploying to seamlessly integrate with forces already along the border and working together with the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection.
In a matter of days, we will have nearly doubled the number of forces along the border, effectively implementing the President’s intent while planning and posturing for expanded efforts to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the United States."