The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), carried out its fourth large-scale removal flight to the People’s Republic of China in less than six months. This flight repatriated Chinese nationals who lacked a lawful basis for remaining in the United States.
“This removal flight is yet another example of the Department’s ongoing cooperation with the PRC and other international partners to deter irregular migration through the timely processing and removal of individuals who have not established a legal basis for remaining in the United States,” said DHS in a statement.
The DHS reiterated its message: “Do not believe the lies of smugglers.” The agency emphasized its commitment to enforcing immigration laws and swiftly removing individuals who enter the U.S. unlawfully.
“DHS is enforcing U.S. immigration laws and delivering tough consequences for those who enter unlawfully or without authorization. This includes swiftly returning those without a legal basis for remaining in the United States, while encouraging the use of safe, lawful, and orderly pathways; holding transnational criminal networks accountable for abusing our lawful trade and travel systems; and preventing the smuggling and exploitation of vulnerable people,” DHS said.
Since the June 4 Presidential Proclamation on Securing the Border and the related Interim Final Rule, finalized on September 30, there has been a significant reduction in unlawful border crossings. Notably, encounters along the southwest border between ports of entry have dropped by more than 60%, according to DHS.
From the implementation of the June 4 Proclamation through November, DHS has conducted over 740 international repatriation flights to more than 160 countries, including China, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Egypt, Mauritania, Senegal, Uzbekistan, and India. In fiscal year 2024, DHS removed or returned over 742,000 individuals—marking the highest number of removals since fiscal year 2010.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
