More than 1,500 migrants have been left on the streets of San Diego, California, as the county's migrant welcome center closed due to lack of funds at the end of February. The situation has led to approximately 600 to 900 individuals being dropped off daily at a transit stop in southern San Diego County. Notably, around 70% of these migrants are single males.
With no facilities available at the drop-off site, nonprofit organizations have stepped in to transport the migrants to San Diego Airport. This has turned the airport into an impromptu shelter, impacting the local tourism industry and increasing concerns about street crime in the area. The uncertainty of how many migrants are staying in San Diego further complicates the situation.
Recent data shows a significant increase in encounters at the southern border, with San Diego now emerging as a new focal point. The Border Patrol's encounters in Tucson and San Diego have surged, highlighting the challenges faced by these regions. The lack of effective border security measures has allowed individuals to cross into the country unchecked, posing a threat to the existing legal immigration system.
The need for enhanced border security measures is evident, with calls for the Border Patrol to secure the border more effectively. The current situation raises concerns about the potential escalation of the migrant crisis and the impact it may have on local communities. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to border control and immigration management.