Chief Michael W. Banks

As of January 21,2025, all content on this account will be attributed to Chief Michael Banks, 27th Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol. With over 20 years of service in the Border Patrol, I am honored to lead this incredible team. Together, we’ll strengthen partnerships, enhance operations, and embrace innovation to secure our nation’s borders. Thank you for your dedication—let’s move forward with purpose and professionalism! — Chief Michael Banks

Another major milestone: The U.S. Border Patrol has reached 10 consecutive months of zero releases into the United States. We have seen the consequences of releasing those who refuse to enter lawfully. That era is over! Our borders are CLOSED to lawbreakers and drug cartels. @DHSgov @CBP @WhiteHouse

In El Paso, TX, four illegal aliens were apprehended after entering the U.S. illegally and using a breach in an iron storm drain grate to evade detection. The group consisted of two Mexican nationals, one Ecuadoran national, and one Salvadoran national, all of whom are being processed for deportation. Even a breach in an iron grate isn’t enough to sneak by Border Patrol Agents. We are committed to securing our nation’s border. @usbpchiefept

#Marines assigned to #JTF_SB worked together with @CBP partners in El Centro, California, expanding awareness at the #southernborder by patrolling the ground and monitoring the airspace. @USMC @USNorthernCmd @DeptofWar @SecWar #WeHaveTheWatch

Smart Border Wall is an investment! #Wallswork Smart Wall = fewer illegal entries = increased safety and tax savings for every American! Even during this unnecessary shutdown, wall construction infused with smart technology continues. Now if Congress would just approve our appropriations, we could pay these CBP personnel that are dedicated to protecting America.

Ten straight months of ZERO illegal aliens released at the border. President Trump promised to secure the Border, and that is a promise we delivered. We have the most secure border in American history. Our borders are CLOSED to lawbreakers.

TEN MONTHS AND COUNTING. @POTUS Trump promised to secure the border, and that is a promise we delivered. We currently have the most SECURE border in AMERICAN HISTORY, with not a SINGLE illegal alien released into our nation for 10 months straight. In addition, February marked the highest single month of @CBP drug seizures nationwide since 2021. Our borders are CLOSED to lawbreakers and drug cartels.

DANGEROUS DRUGS SEIZED: 119 POUNDS OF METH 🚨 At the I-19 USBP Immigration Checkpoint in Amado, AZ, a K9’s sharp sense of smell and our agents’ expertise led to the interception of a major meth shipment. After a K9 alert, agents noticed modifications to the SUV’s rear cargo area. A subsequent search revealed 111 wrapped packages concealed within the compartment and rear quarter panels. Two Mexican nationals are in custody, facing federal drug smuggling charges. Checkpoints. K9s. Agents. Layer by layer, they form an unbreakable line of defense. @USBPChiefTCA

In the rugged terrain of Sasabe, AZ, a USBP Horse Patrol unit and K9 team on patrol encountered a discarded backpack stuffed with suspected narcotics. A USBP K-9 confirmed the presence of a trained odor - 12 bundles of meth were discovered weighing 19lbs. The drugs were seized. Whether on four legs or two, our teams are diligently working to keep these drugs out of our neighborhoods. @usbpchieftca

We are less than 100 days from the first match of @FIFAWorldCup 2026. CBP security starts before the games begin. We work with local, state, and federal partners to keep fans, players, and officials safe. ⚽️ 🇺🇸 → go.dhs.gov/iaU #WeAre26 #FIFAWorldCup #USHostsTheWorld

Are you wearing green?   We are! Not for luck, it means something - honor, service, and commitment.   Join the U.S. Border Patrol today! Apply: cbp.gov/get-hired

ARRESTED: PAISAS GANG MEMBER ❗ A previously deported felon tried to slip past agents at a USBP Immigration Checkpoint in Marathon, TX. During questioning, the Mexican national admitted he had been deported before and had no legal documents to be in the U.S. He also admitted to being an active member of the Paisas prison gang. Record checks confirmed more- he has a conviction for possession with intent to distribute meth. He is now facing federal charges for felony illegal reentry- then deportation. @Usbpchiefbbt

FROM TRAFFIC STOP ➡️MAJOR DRUG SEIZURE During highway enforcement operations, USBP agents and the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office stopped an SUV that was loaded with meth. A thorough inspection uncovered 40 packages stashed throughout the vehicle. DEA took custody of the driver who now faces federal drug possession charges- 130 lbs. of meth SEIZED. @usbpchiefyum

On March 11, #DemingAirUnit teamed up with Lordsburg Border Patrol, RAPTOR Team, #BORTAC, and @USBPSOG Special Operations Group units for a coordinated effort in the El Paso Sector. The operation began after agents observed a group of eight individuals preparing to cross into the United States near San Luis Pass Road the night before. The next morning, agents deployed to the area and tracked the group through mountainous terrain. After several hours, they located and apprehended six individuals dressed in camouflage, who were attempting to avoid detection. Two additional subjects, believed to be the group’s foot guides, managed to leave the area before law enforcement arrived. Despite an extensive search, the guides were not found and are believed to have returned south into Mexico. #AMO #BorderPatrol #FridayVibes

“In the first year, #JTF_SB & @DHSgov partners showed what a whole-of-government approach to the #SouthernBorder can achieve. We’ve bolstered security through unity of effort and enhanced detection. Secure, precise, and professional” - MG Gardner @USNorthernCmd

Smugglers don't care what time it is. Neither do we. If you attempt to smuggle, be ready to face the consequences! @CBP @DHSgov

A stronger border means a safer America- and we aren’t slowing down.

Agents in El Paso, TX, swiftly intervened as a U.S. citizen attempted to smuggle five illegal aliens further into the U.S.   The U.S. citizen was already on probation and is now facing state human smuggling charges.   Illegal aliens apprehended: ▪️ 3 Mexican nationals ▪️ 1 Mexican national- unaccompanied minor ▪️ 1 Chinese national   We’re watching. We’re tracking. We’re apprehending. We will continue to fully prosecute human smugglers. @usbpchiefept

Through consistent efforts, we’re strengthening the Southwest border, transforming the once vulnerable areas into secure and protected zones.

Strong partnerships drive strong results.   Meeting with U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California Adam Gordon underscored how law enforcement and federal prosecutors work together to hold smugglers and criminal networks accountable.   From interdiction to prosecution, this collaboration shows aggressive, unapologetic enforcement of our nation’s laws. @CBP

On the line in San Diego, I am getting a firsthand look at operations across land and sea. The strongest strategy supports our agents on the frontline, and from coast to coast, we remain vigilant. Maritime operations are a key component in strengthening border security and protecting this great nation. @CBP