U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported a significant increase in drug seizures in May, with nationwide confiscations of cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl, and other substances up 32 percent compared to April.
According to a CBP release, agents seized 795 pounds of fentanyl in May, up 72 percent from April 2026. CBP also reported it has seized 56 percent more drugs this year than the same time period in the 2024 fiscal year under former President Joe Biden.
Non-intrusive search systems and specialized K-9 units continue to be highly effective in thwarting illegal drugs from entering the country.
Additionally, CBP agents encountered nearly 10,000 illegal border crossers in May, up 11 percent compared to April. Most attempted crossings still occurred in the Rio Grande Valley.
While encounters with illegal aliens were marginally higher than in April, attempted crossings typically increase during the summer months.
Daily apprehensions of illegal aliens in May were 94 percent lower than under the peak of the Biden administration, with an average of 323 apprehended illegal aliens per day in May.
CBP has also maintained thirteen consecutive months of zero releases, meaning all illegal aliens are either detained or deported.
“Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, we are delivering the most secure border in American history,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin. “The days of catch and release are over. We are enforcing the nation’s laws and quickly sending illegal aliens back to their home countries, ensuring the safety and sovereignty of our nation.”
CBP reported apprehensions during the 2026 Fiscal Year have been 26 percent lower than any other fiscal year since 1992.
“This milestone, coupled with historically low illegal crossings, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to securing our nation. Our robust enforcement policies are working, and we are delivering unprecedented results in border security, drug interdiction, and trade enforcement,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott. “These sustained successes are a testament to our strategic approach and the vital support we receive, thanks to the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Mullin.”
As part of its duties in regards to trade and tariffs, CBP noted that the agency processed $321 billion in imports in 2026 and seized over $400 million in counterfeit goods.
