CBP announces reduction of Paso Del Norte bridge operations and new enforcement to remove migrants

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Federal officials will begin conducting a "targeted enforcement operation" in El Paso Wednesday, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Immigration enforcement officials will process individuals for vetting and placement into Title 42 expulsion or Title 8 removal proceedings.

The operation will be conducted by CBP and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

This comes as hundreds of migrants have been camping out along the streets and alleyways outside and near Sacred Heart Church in downtown El Paso.

Officials say migrants "who pose a threat to national security or public safety will be transferred to ICE for detention."

"As we have said repeatedly, individuals who do not have a lawful basis to remain will be removed," said Acting Commissioner Troy Miller. "Individuals should not listen to the lies of smugglers and instead use lawful pathways to protection."

Officials also expect to reduce processing lanes and passenger operations at the Paso Del Norte port of entry beginning Monday night to accommodate the needs to handle the current migrant surge.

Travelers are encouraged by CBP to use other ports of entry "in the interest of border security and to protect the traveling public."