Border wall gap creates frustration for agents after Biden halts construction.
Amid an ongoing crisis at the southern border in one of the hottest spots for migrant crossings, there remains a massive gap in the border wall – through which Border Patrol agents say illegal immigrants know how to pour through.
Located near Otay Mountain, California, about a mile and a half from the port of entry in Otay Mesa, there exists a significant gap in the double wall structure.
The Trump administration installed or strengthened two barriers, one along the U.S.-Mexico border to prevent illegal immigrants from crossing into the United States. The second is an additional wall, surrounded by roads and lights so that Border Patrol can intercept and detain any crossers who manage to climb over or through the first structure.
Despite this setup, the Biden administration halted wall construction after taking office in 2021. While it has pledged to finish some projects already funded by Congress, including repairing certain gaps in the wall, the project in San Diego has remained unfinished.
Agent Bayon described the gap as “frustrating” for agents, highlighting that it was nearly completed, comprising approximately two football fields. This open gap serves as a beacon for those looking to cross into the United States.
In a statement, CBP mentioned that it “utilizes a multi-layered enforcement strategy where multiple elements complement each other to enhance border security.”
“This entails technology, personnel, and tactical infrastructure, as well as a whole-of-government approach that leverages partner agencies and relationships with foreign governments,” a spokesperson stated. “This specific location is part of the Border Patrol’s infrastructure priority list. We have been working to address this list over the past several years and continue to do so.”
CBP has highlighted diminishing border numbers in recent months, including in the San Diego Sector, showing a 29% decrease in Border Patrol encounters compared to May. The agency underscored that they enforce consequences on those entering illegally and on smugglers, including removal and a five-year bar to entry.
The gap in the border wall exemplifies the stark contrast between the policies of the previous Trump administration and the current Biden administration. The former prioritized increased interior enforcement and border wall construction, while the latter rolled back many of those measures deeming them ineffective. Instead, the Biden administration advocates for fundamental immigration reform, additional funding, and addressing the root causes of migration.
The administration has taken action, including a recent executive order aimed at restricting entries at the southern border during high numbers. The White House reported a decrease of more than 50% in overall encounters and a 70% reduction in releases since the order’s implementation. Additionally, officials stated that over 50,000 individuals have been removed and returned to more than 100 countries.
While the executive order has shown results, officials emphasized that a lasting solution to the border challenges necessitates congressional action to provide additional authorities, resources, and personnel for securing the border.
Agent Bayon, however, expressed the union’s lack of support for the Biden administration due to what he deemed as a lack of enforcement, dismissing the executive order as merely a temporary solution.
In conclusion, the ongoing border crisis continues to be a point of contention, with differing opinions on how best to address the situation. As the debate rages on, the issue remains unresolved, and the need for comprehensive action from both political and enforcement authorities is evident.
