U.S. Customs and Border Protection on High Alert for Explosive Devices at the Border
Mexican Military Seizes Improvised Explosive Devices, Prompting Increased Vigilance from CBP Agents
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a warning to its agents to be on high alert for explosive devices following the seizure of 10 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) by the Mexican military at the border. The internal officer safety alert, dated December 13th, urges CBP agents to exercise extreme caution and report any possible armed subjects approaching the border with potential explosive devices. This development highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by border patrol agents and the need for increased border safety measures.
Mexican Authorities Discover IEDs Amidst Cartel Gunfight
The discovery of the IEDs came after Tucson border patrol agents observed gunshots at the U.S.-Mexico border. A supervisory border patrol agent from Tucson apprehended an armed individual on the U.S. side, who was found to be in possession of a loaded AK-47 rifle, two loaded AK magazines, loose rounds, and a handgun. Mexican authorities subsequently seized 10 IEDs, leading to concerns about the potential for increased violence and the need for heightened security measures.
Cartel Control Over Border Smuggling Routes
According to a source, the gunfight between cartels erupted over a gap in the border fence that is typically used for drug smuggling. However, this gap has now become a magnet for cartel activity related to human smuggling. The fighting between rival gangs highlights the ongoing struggle for control over lucrative smuggling routes. This situation underscores the need for increased border security measures to combat criminal organizations and protect both U.S. and Mexican citizens.
Republican Push for Enhanced Border Safety Measures
As CBP issues its warning, Republicans are advocating for increased border safety measures to be included in President Biden’s $106 billion aid package for Israel and Ukraine. GOP border hawks are demanding that the aid package incorporate the entirety of H.R. 2, a comprehensive border security bill that includes provisions for ramping up border security, restarting border wall construction, reinstating the Remain-in-Mexico policy, and limiting the use of asylum and humanitarian parole. However, President Biden and Senate Democrats have rejected the bill, citing concerns about its impact on humanitarian protections and international obligations.
Senate Negotiations and Border Talks
In response to the ongoing border crisis, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has announced that the Senate will return early from its holiday recess to continue border talks. Negotiators from the White House, Senate Democrats, and Senate Republicans will work through the weekend to reach a framework agreement. However, the White House has yet to present a border proposal on paper, and lawmakers will require time to review any potential deal. This suggests that a final vote on border safety measures may be delayed until the new year.
Overwhelming Numbers of Migrants at the Border
As discussions on border safety measures continue, overwhelmed officials at the border are grappling with a significant influx of migrants. On Tuesday alone, more than 10,000 migrants were encountered by border officials. This surge in migration further highlights the urgency of addressing border security and implementing effective measures to manage the flow of individuals seeking entry into the United States.
Conclusion:
The seizure of improvised explosive devices by the Mexican military at the border has raised concerns about the potential for increased violence and the need for heightened security measures. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has issued a warning to its agents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to armed subjects approaching the border with potential explosive devices. As negotiations continue in the Senate regarding border safety measures, the overwhelming number of migrants at the border underscores the urgency of finding comprehensive solutions to address the ongoing border crisis. It remains to be seen how lawmakers will navigate the complex challenges posed by border security while upholding humanitarian protections and international obligations.