In April, the U.S. Border Patrol recorded a decline in migrant encounters along the southwest border, with 128,900 encounters between ports of entry. This represented a 30% decrease compared to April 2023 and a 6% decrease from March. CBP is focusing on surging resources and personnel to impacted sectors to ensure safe and orderly processing of individuals for expedited removals, according to Troy Miller, a senior official performing the duties of the commissioner.
While there was a decrease in migrant encounters, separate figures revealed that there were 1.6 million known gotaways from fiscal year 2021 to fiscal year 2023. Known gotaways are individuals who are detected by cameras, sensors, or footings, but are not apprehended. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens expressed concern about the risks posed by these unknown individuals who evade capture, as it is unclear what their intentions are or what they may have brought with them. This uncertainty represents a significant threat for border security officials.
In April, CBP processed 41,400 individuals through appointments at ports of entry submitted via the CBP One app. Since the app was introduced in January 2023, over 591,000 people have scheduled appointments to present at ports of entry. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who has faced criticism for the high number of migrants entering the U.S., has acknowledged changes in migration flow. He noted that under the current administration, the estimated annual apprehension rate has averaged 78%, similar to the rate under the prior administration.
The issue of gotaways poses a significant challenge for border security officials, as these individuals are able to evade capture and their intentions and backgrounds remain unknown. The concern raised by Border Patrol officials highlights the complexity of managing the border and ensuring the safety and security of the region. The surge in personnel and resources to impacted sectors is part of the effort to address these challenges and enhance the expedited removal process for individuals encountered at the border.
The decline in migrant encounters in April is a positive development, but the issue of gotaways continues to present a significant challenge for border security. CBP’s efforts to process individuals efficiently through appointments at ports of entry are part of the broader strategy to manage migration flow and ensure safe and orderly processing. The comments from Border Patrol Chief Owens underscore the importance of addressing the risks posed by individuals who evade capture, as their unknown intentions and backgrounds represent a potential threat to border security.
Moving forward, continued collaboration and coordination among federal agencies, border security officials, and other stakeholders will be essential to address the complex challenges at the border. Enhancing surveillance, improving technology, and increasing resources will be critical components of efforts to manage migration flow effectively and ensure the safety and security of the southwest border. As the situation evolves, ongoing monitoring and adjustments to strategies and tactics will be necessary to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging threats.
