More than 300 Texas National Guard soldiers are set to deploy to Laredo within the next month to reinforce security along the U.S.-Mexico border, Border Patrol officials confirmed. The deployment is part of a new agreement between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Texas National Guard, allowing select members to assist with immigration enforcement under Title 8 regulations. This includes questioning individuals about their immigration status and making arrests—though always under Border Patrol supervision, as originally reported by Border Report.
Title 8 of the U.S. Code establishes the legal framework for immigration and nationality laws in the U.S., regulating visas, deportation, asylum, and penalties for unlawful entry. In the context of the Texas National Guard deployment, it grants designated personnel the authority to enforce immigration laws, including questioning individuals about their legal status and making arrests for violations. However, these National Guard troops can only exercise this authority under the direct supervision of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), ensuring that enforcement aligns with federal immigration policies.
The decision to deploy additional troops comes amid escalating violence across the border in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. On February 3, multiple gunfire incidents were reported near an international bridge, raising concerns for those traveling between the two cities. Following these incidents, authorities arrested Ricardo Gonzalez, known as “El Ricky,” an alleged cartel member. Due to the resulting violence, the U.S. Consulate in Nuevo Laredo announced its closure, citing an emergency situation in the city, as reported by CBS News.
In response, Webb County Sheriff Martin Cuellar issued a public warning, urging U.S. citizens to exercise caution when visiting Mexico. Meanwhile, Operation Lone Star, Texas’ border security initiative, has intensified enforcement in the region by deploying additional National Guard units and DPS troopers near Laredo College and international crossings to deter potential threats.
The deployment of Texas National Guard troops underscores the ongoing efforts to bolster border security amid rising concerns over immigration enforcement and escalating violence in northern Mexico. While the expanded authority under Title 8 aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities, the presence of these troops remains under strict CBP supervision to ensure adherence to federal regulations. As tensions persist in Nuevo Laredo, U.S. officials continue to monitor the situation closely, reinforcing security measures to protect both border communities and those traveling between the two nations.
