Texas Governor Abbott Boosts Security at Border Amid Cartel Violence

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced plans to deploy more state troopers to the border and throughout Texas as part of a response to rising cartel violence following the recent death of notorious drug lord “El Mencho.”

On Monday, Abbott, a Republican, instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to enhance safety and homeland security measures across the state. He indicated that the violence in Mexico is escalating and that this poses a significant threat to U.S. residents.

“Mexican drug cartels represent a serious danger to public safety and national security,” Abbott commented. He emphasized that Texas would intensify its efforts to counteract this violence, utilizing all available resources to keep both the state and the nation safe.

He expressed determination that even with the rise in cartel-related violence, Texas would not be intimidated by criminal actions that instill fear in its citizens.

At the governor’s request, various state resources, including the Texas Highway Patrol and Texas Rangers, are being mobilized to the border region. The aim is to identify and arrest criminals while preventing potential threats from crossing over.

Texas is also increasing its tactical marine and aviation units along the border to better monitor and respond to illegal activities. Additional personnel from the Department of Homeland Security will also be monitoring social media for any suspicious activity around the clock.

This enhanced security measures come after a wave of violence in Mexico, which resulted in the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” as well as several members of the Mexican National Guard and various criminal associates.

In retaliation, cartels have been waging violence throughout Mexico, setting up barricades and igniting vehicles in protest.

Some American tourists vacationing in Puerto Vallarta reported being caught in the chaos after El Mencho’s death. Flights were canceled, and officials issued shelter-in-place orders. Some travelers said they witnessed fires and roadblocks, describing the scene as chaotic and reminiscent of a conflict zone.

Eugene Marchenko, a tourist from Charleston, South Carolina, recounted waking to the sounds of honking horns, seeing cars ablaze near his rental property, and needing to evacuate for safety.

Abbott advised residents in need of immediate help to reach out to the U.S. State Department or the Texas Fusion Center, which serves as a key intelligence hub in the state. He is in contact with both the State Department and the FBI as the situation develops.