US Defense, Homeland Security to work with states to protect border with Mexico

US Defense and Homeland Security departments have been directed to work with state governors to deploy National Guard troops to secure the country’s border with Mexico.

Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen said the troops would bolster US Customs and Border Protection and offer support where required.

Pentagon spokesperson Dana W. White said: “We are working with the Department of Homeland Security to enhance the support we provide to the DHS border security mission. We look forward to continuing our partnership with DHS to ensure the defense of our nation and security of the American people.”

This deployment will help close the gaps in border security and stop illegal activities posing a risk to the country.

Nielsen said:  “We continue to see unacceptable levels of illegal drugs, dangerous gang activity, transnational criminal organizations and illegal immigration flow across our border”.

The deployment is expected to begin immediately.

The Defense Department has been supporting DHS in safeguarding the nation’s borders, through counternarcotics missions, infrastructure construction, surveillance operations training and aerial support.

At the White House yesterday, Trump said: “Until we can have a wall and proper security, we’re going to be guarding our border with the military,” he said.

Earlier too, presidents have deployed National Guard troops to boost security along the border with Mexico. President George W. Bush sent 6000 troops while President Barack Obama sent 1,200 troops.