Military Gains Authority to Detain Migrants at New Mexico Border Area

Members of the military stationed along the southern border now have the authority to detain and search individuals who enter illegally. This development highlights a significant shift in the role of military personnel in border security efforts.

New Measures Implemented by Joint Task Force-Southern Border

The U.S. Northern Command announced on Monday that troops with the Joint Task Force-Southern Border (JTF-SB) can now engage in various security operations within the New Mexico National Defense Area (NMNDA). This area falls under the jurisdiction of Fort Huachuca, a well-known military installation.

This new authorization marks a departure from previous restrictions that typically prevented military members from partaking in civilian law enforcement activities, including search, seizure, or arrest. The increased involvement of the military in law enforcement actions is a notable change in U.S. border security policy.

Expanded Roles for Service Members

Under their newly acquired responsibilities, military personnel can search and temporarily detain unauthorized individuals within the NMNDA. Additionally, they will provide medical assistance and oversee crowd control measures until local law enforcement can take custody of those detained.

Task force members are also equipped to help with the installation of temporary barriers, signage, and fencing upon request. These actions are designed to enhance operational efficiency at the border.

Statements from Military Leadership

General Gregory Guillot, commanding officer of U.S. Northern Command, stated that the enhanced authorities will ensure individuals who illegally enter the New Mexico National Defense Area are swiftly transferred to Customs and Border Protection, alongside other law enforcement partners. He emphasized that Joint Task Force-Southern Border will undertake increased detection and monitoring operations, which will include both vehicle and foot patrols, as well as aerial surveillance.

Coordination with Federal Agencies

U.S. Northern Command has been designated as the operational lead for the deployment of military forces to execute President Trump’s executive orders concerning the southern border. This strategic role underscores the importance of military coordination with federal and local law enforcement agencies in addressing challenges related to illegal immigration.

Control of Federal Lands Aimed at Curbing Illegal Activities

In a related development, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum recently announced that the Army will assume control of approximately 110,000 acres of federal land situated along the U.S.-Mexico border. This decision is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration aimed at mitigating illegal immigration and trafficking in the region.

The transfer of jurisdiction over 109,651 acres will empower the Army for a three-year period and will be contingent on maintaining existing rights. This shift is intended to enhance the government’s ability to protect valuable natural and cultural resources in the area, while simultaneously bolstering the Army’s capacity to assist U.S. Border Patrol operations in securing the border.

Military Support for Border Protection

In March, the Department of Defense authorized military patrols along the southern border to provide enhanced detection and monitoring to support U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This initiative included the condition that any law enforcement actions for apprehending individuals suspected of illegal border crossing must be carried out solely by non-Department of Defense law enforcement personnel and National Guard members operating in a non-federalized capacity.

Looking Forward: The Future of Militia at the Border

The introduction of military involvement in border enforcement represents a significant evolution in U.S. immigration policy. As service members take on increased roles in border security, ongoing assessments will determine the effectiveness of these measures in curbing illegal immigration and ensuring the safety of the region.

This growing trend of military authority at the border raises questions about the precise balance between national security and civil liberties. Observers will watch closely as these changes unfold, particularly regarding the operational impact on local communities and law enforcement agencies.

As this situation develops, the focus will remain on how these military initiatives translate into tangible results in securing the border and addressing the complexities surrounding illegal immigration.

The potential consequences of these expanded military roles will shape the future landscape of border security operations across the United States.

Fox News Digital’s Alexandra Koch contributed to this report.