U.S. Border Patrol is warning migrants about the extreme dangers of attempting illegal train entry into the country following a recent arrest in El Paso, Texas.
On June 6, officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in El Paso apprehended a Mexican national hiding in a hollow compartment of a cargo train. The discovery was made during a routine nonintrusive inspection using vehicle and cargo scanning systems. Upon noticing irregularities, officers conducted a physical search and found the man concealed at the end of an empty hopper railcar.
The individual, who had previously been arrested and deported, was charged under 8 USC 1326 — reentry after removal. He was taken into custody for illegal entry without inspection.
Why Train Entry Is So Dangerous
CBP warns that attempting to cross the border via freight trains poses serious risks beyond legal consequences. According to Samuel Cleaves, Assistant Director for Border Security at CBP’s El Paso Field Office, those who hide inside moving trains risk death or severe injury.
“Aliens attempting to board moving trains sometimes slip and have limbs severed,” Cleaves stated. “As temperatures rise above 100°F, the risk of death from heat stroke or dehydration increases.” Additionally, the shifting of cargo can trap or crush individuals attempting to hide within the train’s compartments.
Increasing Border Security Measures
The latest incident highlights the ongoing efforts of U.S. border authorities to prevent unauthorized entry. Through the use of advanced inspection technologies, including nonintrusive imaging systems, CBP agents are able to detect concealed individuals in both passenger and cargo vehicles at points of entry.
While some individuals may view train hopping as an alternative to crossing the border on foot, the method is anything but safe or discreet. CBP reiterates that those caught face federal charges and deportation, with increased legal penalties for repeat offenders.
Border Statistics: FY2024 vs FY2025
| Fiscal Year | Apprehensions via Train |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 143 |
| 2025 (so far) | 43 |
These numbers highlight the continuing challenges faced by border agents when it comes to railway inspections. Though apprehension numbers have decreased so far in FY2025, authorities remain on high alert as temperatures rise and smuggling techniques evolve.
CBP’s Mission and Public Role
With more than 65,000 personnel, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the nation’s largest law enforcement organization. Its duties extend beyond stopping illegal immigration — it also facilitates legal travel and trade, ensuring the safety and economic stability of the United States.
CBP emphasizes innovation, intelligence, and collaboration to detect threats, manage borders, and protect both residents and migrants from dangerous conditions.
The agency continues to advise anyone considering unauthorized entry — especially by train — to reconsider their plans, citing the grave risks involved and the certainty of legal consequences.
Photo credit: ID 52270141 | Border El Paso ©
Joe Sohm | Dreamstime.com
