U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported a dramatic decrease in apprehensions at the southern border. According to a new report, the entire month of March 2025 saw fewer crossings than just the first two days of March 2024.
Sharp Decline in Border Crossings
This milestone reflects a significant shift in border activity. CBP highlighted the trend in an X post, stating the latest figures show “record low numbers” of illegal crossings.
In total, Border Patrol recorded 7,181 apprehensions of individuals attempting to cross between ports of entry in March. This marks a 14% drop from February’s 8,346 apprehensions and a 95% plunge from the 137,473 recorded in March 2024.
Enhanced Patrols and Historic Lows
CBP credits the decline to intensified operations, bolstered by Department of Defense support.
The agency noted that it has “dramatically increased active patrols of our international borders,” contributing to what it calls a “pivotal achievement in our nation’s border security efforts.”
March 2025 marked the lowest southwest border crossings in history, according to CBP. The agency described this as evidence that “operational control [of the border] is becoming a reality.”
For the second consecutive month, Border Patrol averaged its lowest daily nationwide apprehensions ever. Acting CBP Commissioner Pete Flores emphasized the agency’s efforts, stating, “U.S. Border Patrol’s apprehensions along the southwest border for the entire month of March 2025 were lower than the first two days of March 2024.”
Focus on Enforcement and Drug Seizures
At the 328 ports of entry managed by CBP’s Office of Field Operations, daily encounters averaged 673 in March. This is a 3% decrease from February’s 693 and an 81% reduction from the 3,464 daily average in March 2024.
While crossings have plummeted, CBP reported a rise in illicit drug seizures. In March, the agency confiscated 760 pounds of fentanyl, up 24% from February.
Seizures of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana combined surged by 47% month-over-month. This suggests a shift toward stronger drug interdiction as border security tightens.
Agency Commitment and Policy Messaging
Flores credited CBP’s workforce for the results, saying, “This is a testament to the tireless dedication and vigilant service of the men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, who work every day to keep our country safe.”
He added, “Their commitment on the front lines plays a vital role in securing our borders and protecting American communities.”
The report also underscored a clear policy stance, noting, “Aliens are receiving the [Trump] administration’s message: if you cross the border illegally, you will be deported.”
