Ali Bradley covers developments on the southern border with a focus on human and drug smuggling, immigration enforcement efforts and the failure to control the influx of migrants. Check out Bradley on the Border on YouTube now!
(NewsNation) — Despite migrant encounters trending downward at the U.S.-Mexico border, cartels are seeking new smuggling tactics, aiming for a significant payday.
In the Rio Grande Valley Sector, migrant apprehensions have dropped to just around 100 per day under the Trump administration, a stark contrast to the reported 2,000 daily crossings just a year ago.
While the activity of cartels at the border is also down, those transnational criminal organizations are now focusing on large-scale drug smuggling operations.
Texas DPS seizes 794 pounds of cocaine
The Texas Department of Public Safety and federal authorities are intercepting millions of dollars’ worth of cocaine in high-profile busts as part of Operation Lone Star.
One recent Texas DPS arrest involved Mario Robledo, who attempted to smuggle more than 500 pounds of cocaine, worth an estimated $6.8 million, into the U.S.
Authorities responded to the Pharr Port of entry after U.S. Customs and Border Protection suspected a truck-tractor semitrailer of smuggling narcotics. The cocaine was recovered in 150 plastic-wrapped bundles hidden inside a truck-tractor semitrailer during a secondary inspection.
Robledo was charged with manufacturing and delivery of a controlled substance and was booked into the Hidalgo County jail.
Texas DPS also announced the seizure of 794 pounds of cocaine worth up to $10.5 million.
Lt. Chris Olivarez emphasized the Texas DPS’ commitment to preventing drugs from reaching U.S. streets.
“As illegal border crossings decline, Mexican drug cartels are increasing drug smuggling efforts. Under Gov. Greg Abbott’s leadership & prioritization of border security, Texas DPS remains committed to dismantling transnational criminal organizations and keeping illicit drugs off our streets,” he said.
In San Diego, Border Patrol agents also made drug busts, including the seizure of 200 pounds of meth at a checkpoint and a multiagency operation that seized 104 pounds of fentanyl, 390 pounds of cocaine, 535 pounds of meth, heroin, firearms and ammo. The operation led to 20 arrests.
Border Patrol and Texas DPS collaboration
Despite President Donald Trump pressuring Mexico to crack down on illegal immigration and Mexican cartels being designated as foreign terrorist organizations, drug smuggling at the border and checkpoints is not slowing down.
Texas DPS agents told NewsNation there is now a significant focus on enforcement and arresting individuals attempting to enter the country illegally and avoid detection.
Under the Trump administration, “catch and release” ended, and both agencies are working together to stop gotaways from entering the country.
A mounted unit patrolling alongside the Border Patrol tracked down two migrants from Mexico on a private ranch in Webb County. Authorities made an arrest and released them into Border Patrol custody for removal.