Recent directives from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have mandated the holding of migrants in custody, with a focus on swiftly removing individuals who are deemed ineligible for asylum. This decision, aimed at curbing the practice of 'catch and release,' signifies a shift in immigration policy under the current administration.
According to a source familiar with the discussions, CBP has been instructed to detain migrants for extended periods if necessary, rather than releasing them. This move comes amidst ongoing efforts to address the influx of migrants at the US-Mexico border.
One notable consequence of this new directive is the discontinuation of releasing migrants to organizations such as the Catholic Charities of San Diego. The CEO of the charity, Appaswamy “Vino” Pajanor, revealed that CBP notified them of this change, citing a shift in federal policy as the reason for the decision. Previously, the non-profit had been receiving an average of 200 to 300 migrants daily for assistance.
President Donald Trump has been vocal in his criticism of 'catch and release,' a practice that allows migrants to remain in the US while awaiting their immigration court dates. In his recent statements, Trump reiterated his commitment to ending this practice, emphasizing the need for stricter immigration enforcement measures.
As the situation unfolds, CBP and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have been approached for further comments on the evolving policies regarding migrant detention and release.
