Key Points Summary – Border crossings down

• Border crossings down by historic levels
• Only 22,000 illegal crossings in Feb and March
• Sharp drop from 338,000 in the same period last year
• 150,000 deportations in first 100 days
• Officials credit tough new policies
• Smuggling networks disrupted significantly
• Trump praises enforcement efforts as successful

Illegal Crossings Plummet at Southern Border

Border crossings down sharply. Only 22,000 illegal immigrants were caught crossing the U.S.-Mexico border in February and March. This marks a staggering drop compared to the same time last year. Back then, 338,000 migrants attempted to enter the country illegally.

Authorities say new policies are working. The Trump administration rolled out tougher border enforcement right after his inauguration on January 20. These measures appear to have significantly curbed illegal entries.

In March, the lowest levels in over two decades were recorded. Border Patrol reported approximately 7,181 apprehensions, a 94.8% decrease from March 2024, which saw over 137,000 crossings.

Deportations Surge as Crackdown Continues

Not only are crossings down, but deportations have surged. In fact, 150,000 illegal immigrants have been removed from the U.S. in just the first 100 days of the year. This is nearly double the rate from the same period in 2024.

Officials say aggressive removal operations are key. For example, rapid processing protocols and more immigration judges have sped up deportation proceedings. Furthermore, coordination with foreign governments has improved.

Smugglers Struggle to Adapt

Meanwhile, smuggling networks are feeling the heat. Because of tighter enforcement and improved technology at entry points, many operations have been disrupted.

“The cartels are frustrated,” said one senior border official. “We have cut off key routes, and they are struggling to find alternatives.” As a result, many migrants now hesitate before attempting the risky journey.

Trump Hails Border Progress

President Trump praised the latest numbers. According to him, the sharp decline in illegal border crossings shows that the administration’s plan is working.

“Border crossings down, enforcement up — this is what success looks like,” Trump said at a recent press briefing. He added that keeping the border secure remains a top priority.

Communities Notice the Difference

In border towns, residents say the impact is obvious. Compared to last year, far fewer migrants are being dropped off at shelters or sleeping on sidewalks.

Moreover, local officials feel relief. “It’s night and day,” said one mayor in Texas. “While immigration is still a major issue, this year feels much more manageable.”

Mexico and Other Nations Cooperate

International cooperation has also improved. Mexico, for example, has stepped up patrols along its northern border. At the same time, countries like Guatemala and Honduras have agreed to accept more deportees.

This regional approach, experts say, helps prevent illegal crossings before they start. Therefore, diplomacy plays a big role in maintaining lower numbers.