Southwest border apprehensions plunge, reaching historic low in fiscal 2026

U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced that illegal crossings at the southwest border have declined to an unprecedented low for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026, with apprehensions down 95% from the prior year. Nationwide encounters during the same period also reached the lowest level ever recorded by the agency. Commissioner Rodney Scott attributed the results to a strengthened enforcement posture and partnerships on the ground.

While apprehensions fell, drug interdictions rose sharply, with seizures approaching one million pounds, a 63% jump over the previous four-year average. The report also highlighted ongoing challenges, including increased assaults on ICE personnel and several shootings involving federal officers in Texas. Federal troops continue to support border operations, and construction of new barrier sections has progressed since early 2025.