The Tucson Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol has recorded an almost 91% drop in border encounters, the largest decrease of any sector nationwide. In January 2025, agents reported just 4,727 encounters, a stark contrast to the figures from the previous year with over 50,000. This sharp decline follows a series of coordinated enforcement efforts between the U.S. and Mexico.
A key factor in the drop has been the implementation of mirrored patrols with Mexico’s National Guard. These joint operations have focused on dismantling scout sites used by smugglers along the border. Additionally, Mexico has deployed 400 troops to reinforce security along the border with Cochise County—200 in Naco and another 200 in Agua Prieta, Sonora.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has also made significant policy shifts to curb illegal crossings. The agency has ended its practice of “catch and release” and is now using its full legal authority to detain and remove individuals attempting to enter the country illegally. According to CBP, those apprehended are now being arrested, detained, and rapidly deported.
Nationwide, U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions along the southwest border dropped by 85% from January 21 to January 31, compared to the same period last year. This dramatic decrease follows CBP’s decision on January 20 to discontinue the use of the CBP One app, which previously allowed inadmissible migrants to schedule appointments at ports of entry. CBP also ended all categorical parole programs, returning to a case-by-case review process in line with established legal criteria.
The impact of these measures has been particularly evident at ports of entry, where encounters with inadmissible individuals plummeted by 93% in the 11 days following the policy change. With additional support from the Department of Defense, CBP has ramped up active patrols along international borders, reinforcing security and ensuring the swift removal of those entering the country unlawfully.
Further strengthening binational cooperation, officials from the Consulate of Mexico in Douglas and Nogales recently met with Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents to discuss ongoing border security measures. These discussions highlight the commitment of both nations to maintaining a secure and orderly border while addressing shared challenges.
As the Tucson Sector continues to lead the nation in reducing border encounters, officials credit the collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Mexican authorities, increased enforcement, and stricter immigration policies for the significant drop.
U.S. Soldiers from 10th Mountain Division arrived at U.S. Army Fort Huachuca in Arizona. The Joint Task Force headquarters is charged with overseeing units from across military services in support of the southern border mission.
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