American troops now have the power to detain and search immigrants without proper documentation in New Mexico, a first for service members stationed at the southern border, U.S. Northern Command (Northcom) announced Monday.
Northcom stated that troops “have been delegated the authority” to carry out security support operations in the New Mexico National Defense Area. This area, located along the U.S.-Mexico border, is now part of the Army’s Fort Huachuca in Arizona.
With this authorization, service members can temporarily detain and search trespassers, provide medical aid, and manage crowds on military-controlled land until law enforcement officials arrive to take custody, according to Northcom’s statement. The command is leading military support for the Trump administration’s intensified efforts against illegal immigration.
Troops may also assist in setting up temporary barriers, signs, and fencing if requested, Northcom added.
“Through these enhanced authorities, U.S. Northern Command will ensure those who illegally trespass in the New Mexico National Defense Area are handed over to Customs and Border Protection or our other law enforcement partners,”
— Gen. Gregory Guillot, Northcom Commander
He noted that Joint Task Force–Southern Border, which supports border security operations, would step up its efforts through detection and monitoring. This includes vehicle and foot patrols, helicopters, and fixed surveillance sites.
This expanded authority follows President Trump’s April 11 order transferring control of the Roosevelt Reservation area in New Mexico from the Department of the Interior to the Defense Department for three years to aid Border Patrol efforts.
The move effectively reclassifies the land as part of a military installation, allowing the administration to bypass a federal law that typically bars U.S. troops from conducting domestic law enforcement activities.
This marks a major shift in the military’s border role. Until now, troops were only allowed to support law enforcement agencies without engaging directly with individuals crossing the border.
Last month, Guillot told lawmakers that the 6,500 service members at the southern border were assisting Customs and Border Protection and “are not currently doing any detentions.”
That’s set to change with the new authorization, which will expand the areas where troops can detain and search migrants.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on April 15 that the new defense zone stretches more than 170 miles along the New Mexico border. She also revealed that the administration plans to extend it by another 90 miles in Texas over the coming weeks.
