Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced significant progress in border security under the state’s “Operation Lone Star,” a multi-agency initiative to curb illegal immigration. Over the past week, the operation reportedly deterred more than 650 illegal border crossings, with Abbott praising the efforts of the National Guard and Texas State Troopers for reducing such activity by over 86%.
“Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the initiative has resulted in over 526,600 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 48,700 criminal arrests, including over 41,900 felony charges,” Abbott stated on November 15, 2024.
Fortified Border Measures
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A key component of the operation includes innovative barriers like the floating buoy system deployed in the Rio Grande at Eagle Pass, a known hotspot for cartel human smuggling. Despite legal challenges from the Biden Administration, which sought the removal of the buoys, Texas has successfully defended their use in court.
“Over a year ago, Texas placed floating marine barriers in the Rio Grande. These barriers remain a crucial deterrent against illegal immigration despite federal opposition,” Abbott affirmed on November 16, 2024.
Additionally, the state has installed miles of razor and concertina wire along the Rio Grande, further complicating unauthorized crossings. For those who manage to bypass these obstacles, joint patrols by Texas State Troopers and National Guardsmen are conducted inland to intercept migrants.
Persistent Challenges
Despite these measures, the flow of migrants and cartel-guided crossings persists. Surveillance footage from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) highlights “gotaways,” wall breaches, and migrants traversing ranch lands.
“The State of Texas continues to deploy specialized brush teams, K9 units, air support, and advanced surveillance to safeguard our state and nation,” said Lt. Chris Olivarez of DPS on November 16, 2024.
Smugglers have adapted by providing migrants with makeshift ladders to scale the growing border wall, but Abbott emphasized that Texas is unwavering in its resolve to secure the border.
Looming “Border Rush”
Before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, smugglers are urging migrants to cross the border quickly, according to U.S. Senator John Cornyn [R-Texas].
“Human smugglers are spreading a message to U.S.-bound migrants: Hurry up and sneak in before Trump takes office,” Cornyn warned on November 15, 2024.
Despite these challenges, Texas officials vow to maintain and expand Operation Lone Star to protect the state’s borders and reduce illegal crossings, showcasing a firm commitment to its security measures.
