In a significant border security development, Colombian national Carlos Obed Yepez-Bedoya, aged 40, was reportedly arrested in Eagle Pass, Texas, just hours before Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to the area last month.
Border agents detained Yepez-Bedoya on February 21, determining that he was a ‘positive match’ with the terror watchlist.
Arrested on Terror Watchlist: Colombian Migrant Flagged as ‘Group Member’
Yepez-Bedoya’s arrest was part of Operation Lone Star, an initiative employing Texas National Guard and law enforcement units to enhance border security.
An internal agency memo revealed that the Colombian national was flagged as a ‘group member,’ indicating alleged associations with an unspecified terror organization.
Operational Details: DPS Alerts Border Patrol After Initial Arrest
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) initially arrested Yepez-Bedoya for illegal border crossing, subsequently alerting the Border Patrol to take custody.
This arrest highlights the significance of securing the border, with the arrest made amidst concerns about potential threats to public safety and national security.
Texas Response: Operation Lone Star Steps In Amid Federal Shortcomings
Lt. Chris Olivarez from Texas DPS emphasized the importance of border security measures, citing potential threats to public safety and national security.
The arrest underscores the state’s commitment to securing the border independently through Operation Lone Star, particularly as federal efforts are perceived to be falling short.
Trump’s Border Visit: Arrest Underscores Security Concerns in Eagle Pass
Donald Trump’s visit to Eagle Pass included discussions on border security with Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
The former president stressed the severity of the situation, declaring it a ‘war’ and characterizing it as a ‘military operation.’
Eagle Pass, part of the Del Rio sector, witnessed the highest number of illegal crossings in 2022 and 2023.
Immigration Dominates: Record Concerns and Trump’s Critique
Amidst escalating immigration concerns, a Gallup poll revealed that 28 percent of Americans now consider immigration the most significant problem facing the country.
Trump accused President Biden of allowing a ‘horrible invasion’ and pledged to execute the ‘largest domestic deportation operation in American history’ if re-elected.
Concerns Under Biden: Public Anxiety Surges on Immigration Issues
Public concern about illegal immigration has reached unprecedented levels under President Biden’s administration.
The latest Gallup poll indicates an eight-point increase, with 28 percent of voters citing immigration as the most significant problem, surpassing concerns about the economy and inflation.