Coast Guard expands border patrol efforts to combat illegal migration

The U.S. Border Patrol agents in Mission, Texas encountered around 220 individuals on Monday, marking a significant decrease from the more than 1,800 individuals encountered on the same day last year. This decline in numbers can be attributed to President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, which have led to a heightened presence of the U.S. Coast Guard along the Rio Grande.

Coast Guard operations have been bolstered with additional boats and personnel to support Border Patrol efforts. Captain Torrey Bertheau, the sector commander for Corpus Christi, emphasized the mission to detect, deter, and interdict illegal migration and drug smuggling activities along the border. The Coast Guard has been working closely with Border Patrol to monitor and respond to illicit activities in the region.

During a recent operation along the Rio Grande, Coast Guard crew members encountered a suspected cartel spotter along the riverbank. These spotters are commonly used by smugglers to monitor law enforcement movements and evade detection. Despite the decrease in border crossings since President Trump took office, smuggling operations are still ongoing, highlighting the ongoing need for enhanced border security measures.

In addition to patrolling the river, the Coast Guard has also increased patrols along Texas’ maritime boundaries. Recent incidents, such as the detainment of individuals aboard a fishing boat in Port Isabel, demonstrate the importance of maritime security in preventing illegal activities. Captain Bertheau reiterated the Coast Guard’s commitment to protecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the United States, regardless of fluctuations in border activity.

The collaboration between the Coast Guard and Border Patrol highlights the multi-faceted approach to border security, combining land and maritime operations to effectively monitor and respond to threats. Despite the challenges posed by smuggling operations, the increased presence of law enforcement agencies is helping to maintain security along the border.

Sarah Alegre, a Multimedia Reporter based in Houston, joined Fox News in 2024 and has been covering developments in border security and immigration enforcement. Her reporting provides valuable insights into the efforts to strengthen border security and combat illegal activities along the U.S.-Mexico border.