CBP installing barbed wire at El Paso ports of entry after Juarez experiences migrant influx
Customs and Border Protection is enhancing security at El Paso-area ports of entry after receiving reports of the increasing numbers of migrants arriving in Ciudad Juarez, across from El Paso, Texas.
“To ensure the ports of entry are not overrun by a large number of people attempting to enter the U.S. illegally, CBP has taken steps to harden its ports,” said the federal agency in a news release, “Hardening materials are being deployed to the POEs to act as impediments to illegal crossers.”
CBP said the materials include concrete K-rails and concertina wire, the same “port hardening” materials recently employed by CBP in California and south Texas.
“Members of the traveling public may notice that CBP is taking a proactive approach to prevent the unlawful entry of persons into the United States at our ports of entry,” said Hector Mancha, CBP Director of Field Operations in El Paso. “Waiting until a large group of persons mass at the border to attempt an illegal crossing is too late for us; it is vital that we are prepared prior to when they arrive at the border crossing. The safety and security of our communities, members of the traveling public, international trade, CBP personnel and our facilities is paramount.”
El Paso Congresswoman Veronica Escobar said in a statement the barricades installed at the ports of entry are an “affront to the El Paso-Juárez border region’s efforts and work to become a world-renowned destination for international trade and innovation.”
Escobar further stated, “Our bridges are a symbol of our history with Mexico, our strong binational ties and shared interests, and should not become militarized zones based on a misguided policy rooted in fear.”
