THE WEEK’S US BORDER NEWS IN BRIEF:
The week of April 5 through April 12, 2026, in U.S. border security and immigration news was marked by a not-so-veiled threat to “sanctuary cities,” an 11th consecutive month of “zero releases” at the border, and some major cases involving immigration fraud.
Enforcement News:
The newly installed DHS leader makes headlines; the administration highlights record-low migration numbers; and targeted immigration enforcement actions continue.
“Sanctuary City” Customs Shutdown? The new leader of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is threatening to halt customs operations at airports in cities that restrict cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Large Drug Bust: The DHS this week announced that the U.S. Coast Guard seized 4,510 pounds of cocaine, valued at $33.9 million, during a recent patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
VOICE Office Anniversary: Marking the one-year anniversary of the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office reopening, ICE conducted a nationwide sweep targeting non-citizens with convictions for violent crimes, including assault and child abuse.
Regional Statistics: In the New Mexico sector, federal prosecutors brought 198 criminal charges this week, including 106 for illegal reentry and 87 arising from violations at a newly established National Defense Area.
“Zero Release” Streak: On April 9, the DHS and CBP announced an 11th consecutive month of “zero releases” at the border, claiming that daily apprehensions remain 95% below previous historic averages.
Immigration Fraud Cases & Visa Policy Updates:
Fraud Cases: USCIS reported high-profile immigration fraud cases on April 10, including a man arrested in Los Angeles for visa fraud and a war criminal sentenced in Connecticut for naturalization fraud.
April Visa Bulletin: The State Department’s April 2026 bulletin showed “broad forward movement,” particularly in family-based categories (F2A) and certain employment-based (EB-4) preferences.
FINALLY, IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:
(Stories covered by US Border News during the past week)
120+ Aliens Apprehended at Sea
By US Since March 1
US Military Task Force Helps Secure Southern Border
Here’s what they’ve done in a year
Human Smugglers Use Semis Despite Dangers
Deadly results don’t deter them
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Abrazos!
