Santiago, Chile
Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem signed an agreement with a Chilean minister on Wednesday to extend the cross-border immigration warning program that leverages biometric identification.
This initiative, known as Bitmap, is designed to improve the exchange of information between Chile and the United States, specifically targeting criminals trying to enter the U.S. This effort not only aims to disrupt well-organized theft rings from Chile but also seeks to prevent Venezuelan groups, particularly Tren de Aragua, from accessing North America.
“The United States, Chile, and the entire Western Hemisphere will benefit from these measures,” Noem stated.
Chile currently hosts over one million Venezuelans, and Tren de Aragua has been causing issues even prior to the Biden-Harris administration’s border challenges.
Noem commented on the agreement, saying, “Data sharing helps everyone, except those bad actors who wish to do harm.” She emphasized that the introduction of biometric identification would enhance tracking for criminals, terrorists, and other threats crossing the border.
This deal gains significance given the leftward shift of Chilean President Gabriel Boric, who has recently criticized former President Donald Trump’s efforts to strengthen U.S. trade agreements.
When asked about the collaboration on security matters between the two nations, Noem remarked that Chile is a valued partner. “The government has been effective. We can exchange insights about their challenges, but if criminals are allowed passage through Chile, they pose a risk to the U.S., so we aim to assist,” she elaborated.
The Department of Homeland Security explained that the signed letter of intent acts as a “bridge” to foster deeper cooperation. Once fully operational, Bitmap is expected to enhance collaboration in identifying and tracking transnational criminals and other high-risk individuals attempting to cross borders.
In a trial operation of Bitmap, Chilean investigative police managed to apprehend members of the MS-13 gang at Santiago’s airport. Notably, one individual was recognized as a legal resident in Chile, but further investigations revealed his ties to an organized cross-border crime network.
