Texas serves as a crucial barrier for the nation’s sovereignty and security. Thanks to former President Donald Trump’s unwavering commitment, the cartels are now facing an unprecedentedly secure border. In response to this tightening, these organizations are changing their tactics, and the Texas General Land Office (GLO) is rising to the challenge.
As Texas Land Commissioner, I oversee over 13 million acres of land, and my aim is to stay ahead of cartel strategies. Consequently, I have tasked the Asset Enhancement Division with examining GLO-managed border territories, especially in Hudspeth County and other vulnerable areas, for any signs of cartel tunnels.
Blocking violent criminals from sneaking in through underground routes is integral to protecting American citizens. Recent reports indicate that cartels are adapting by using underground tunnels to further their activities of terror, violence, and drug trafficking.
Media outlets have reported that these cartels are shifting to underground drug trafficking as U.S. Border Patrol effectively seizes increasing quantities of drugs at ground level.
These criminal organizations rake in around $150 billion annually from drug trafficking, positioning them among the most profitable illegal enterprises globally. As their operations face more obstacles, they are evolving and seeking innovative methods to enhance their profits.
With the ongoing fentanyl crisis, over 150 Americans are, unfortunately, succumbing daily to overdoses linked to synthetic opioids. Law enforcement in Texas has even confiscated enough fentanyl to potentially kill every man, woman, and child in both the U.S. and Mexico.
In the last year, advanced cartel tunnels designed for transporting harmful drugs, weapons, and human trafficking victims have been uncovered in places like El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California. Such alarming discoveries are why the Trump administration rightfully labeled these cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
Recently, the Department of Homeland Security allocated more than $100 million to enhance its Persistent Surveillance and Detection System, which monitors underground activities.
To aid in detecting these tunnels, GLO is collaborating with federal agencies like Customs and Border Protection to utilize drones and aerial imagery for identifying possible tunnel entrances on state property.
Interrupting cartel operations isn’t new for GLO. Earlier in 2023, I designated Fronton Island in Starr County as federal land, allowing the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Department of Military Affairs to reclaim the 170-acre island for the state. That move effectively ended cartel activities and eradicated surrounding crime.
In 2024, we’re planning to take an even more significant step. GLO acquired a 1,402-acre ranch along the Rio Grande, the future site of the Texas border wall. Almost immediately after the purchase, we moved ahead with a contract for construction, and soon, iron panels began to rise, standing as a testament to Texas’ resolve.
In the U.S., we don’t always have a president from the Republican Party who prioritizes removing illegal criminals from our borders. That’s why GLO is diligently working to maintain border security in Texas.
The Lone Star State remains committed to taking whatever actions necessary to safeguard its residents. We will pinpoint and permanently close all smuggling paths, employing every possible tool, whether above or below ground, ensuring that cartels, traffickers, or terrorists cannot pose a threat to Texas families.
