Texas Closes Two Bridges For Migrant Surge

Migrants in Del Rio, TexasPhoto byYouTube

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has been overwhelmed by migrants along the southern border. Two areas along the Texas border will close railroad crossings temporarily and then shift border patrol agents to help with the recent surge. 

In October, Border Patrol recorded 188,778 encounters along the US- Mexico border. Despite the large numbers, this was a 14% decrease from the previous month of September which was 240,998 encounters.  

With the recent surge, bridges in the Eagle Pass and El Paso sectors closed on December 18 at 8 am. After the closure, border patrol agents were shifting locations to help with the surge. According to CNN, Border Agents detained about 3,000 migrants in Del Rio and 1,300 migrants in El Paso. 

On December 17, Customs and Border Protection released a statement according to Fox News that said:

"Customs and Border Protection is continuing to surge all available resources to safely process migrants in response to increased levels of migrant encounters at the Southwest Border, fueled by smugglers peddling disinformation to prey on vulnerable individuals." 

"After observing a recent resurgence of smuggling organizations moving migrants through Mexico via freight trains, Customs and Border Protection is taking additional actions to surge personnel and address this concerning development, including in partnership with Mexican authorities."

On December 18, Border Patrol reopened the Amistad Dam International Bridge in Del Rio as there was remodeling at the Mexico Customs and an inspection by the International Boundary and Water Commission.   

The situation along the southern border in Texas continues to evolve with migrants crossing illegally. Governor Greg Abbott’s job to secure the Texas border continues, and he works to build the wall.  

What do you think about illegal migrants entering Texas?