An internal officer safety memo dated December 13, shared by a federal law enforcement source with FOX Business Network, urged CBP agents to remain vigilant following the Mexican military's seizure of ten improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at the border.
The discovery of the IEDs by Mexican authorities was prompted by Tucson border patrol's observation of gunfire at the U.S.-Mexico border. A supervisory border patrol agent in Tucson subsequently apprehended an armed individual on the U.S. side, who was in possession of a loaded AK-47 rifle, two loaded AK magazines, loose rounds, and a handgun.
WATCH:ELON MUSK TALKS ABOUT THE FUTURE OF SELF DRIVING CARS
December 15, 2023
The memo advised CBP agents to "exercise extreme caution and should report any possible armed subjects approaching the border with possible explosive devices." A source informed FOX Business that a cartel gunfight had broken out over a gap in the border fence at a ranch typically used for drug smuggling. The location has now become a hotspot for human smuggling by the cartel, leading to violent clashes for control.
WATCH ALAN DERSHOWITZ: "THERE IS NO CRIME IN MANHATTAN"
This warning from the CBP coincides with the Republican party's push for enhanced border safety measures to be incorporated into President Biden’s $106 billion aid package for Israel and Ukraine. GOP border advocates insist that the aid package should encompass the entirety of H.R. 2, a signature House legislation passed this year. The bill proposes a comprehensive overhaul of border security, including the resumption of border wall construction, reinstatement of the Remain-in-Mexico policy, and restrictions on the use of asylum and humanitarian parole.
PUTIN'S LATEST POWER MOVE: RUSSIA DISPLAYS "WAR WINS" IN EYE-OPENING EXHIBITION
However, President Biden and Senate Democrats have dismissed the extensive border security bill, arguing that it would "cut off nearly all access to humanitarian protections in ways that are inconsistent with our Nation’s values and international obligations." A Senate working group proposed a pared-down version of measures from H.R. 2, but this too was rejected by the White House and Senate Democrats.
HOW DEMOCRATS' ANTI-ISRAEL PROTESTS ARE TURNING INTO THEIR WORST NIGHTMARE
Despite the rejection, there were reports this week that the administration was considering a Title 42-type expulsion authority under certain circumstances, expanded expedited removal, and a broadening of immigration detention.
These proposals were met with optimism from some Senate Republicans, even as they were criticized by some Democrats and immigration activists.
"BITCOIN JESUS" BUSTED: $48 MILLION TAX EVASION SCHEME UNRAVELS
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., announced on Thursday that the Senate would return early from its holiday recess to continue border discussions. "That will give negotiators from the White House, Senate Democrats, Senate Republicans, a time to work through the weekend in an effort to reach a framework agreement. It will then take some time to turn that framework into text," Schumer stated on the Senate floor.
FIFTH VICTIM FOUND AND IDENTIFIED IN KEY BRIDGE COLLAPSE
Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., one of the Republicans involved in the talks, informed Fox News Digital on Thursday that the White House has yet to present a border proposal on paper. He suggested that if an agreement is reached, lawmakers will need time to review it, potentially delaying a vote until the new year.
Discover alternative ideas that will make you think
Engage in mind bending debate
Earn points, rise in rank, have fun
