The Department of Homeland Security recently deported 109 unlawful Chinese nationals, underscoring concerns over national security and immigration vigilance.
At a Glance
- 109 Chinese nationals were deported on November 16 by the DHS.
- This marks the third deportation flight to China within six months.
- The apprehension of Chinese nationals at the U.S. border has surged.
- Concerns rise over national security threats associated with these trends.
A Pattern of Deportations and Apprehensions
The Department of Homeland Security has carried out its third deportation flight in less than six months, returning 109 Chinese nationals to their home country on November 16. The operation is a continuation of joint efforts between the U.S. and the People’s Republic of China, focusing on curbing irregular migration and enforcing stricter immigration laws.
This recent flight follows the deportation of 116 Chinese citizens in June and 131 in October. DHS records reveal over 660 repatriation flights conducted to more than 160 countries since June, a level of activity not seen since 2010.
NEW: On November 16, DHS, through @ICEgov, conducted a third large-frame charter removal flight in less than six months to the People’s Republic of China of Chinese nationals with no lawful basis to remain in the United States.
Read more: https://t.co/m0OyBUKLnE pic.twitter.com/ynSC2UOMdD
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) November 19, 2024
Security Concerns Amid Rise in Infiltrations
The southern border has seen an unprecedented rise in the number of Chinese nationals attempting illegal entry, with over 24,300 apprehended in fiscal year 2023, escalating to more than 38,200 the following year. This surge has sparked apprehension over the potential security risks posed by these unauthorized entries into the country.
“This removal flight is yet another example of the Department’s ongoing cooperation with the PRC and other international partners to reduce and deter irregular migration through enforcement of immigration law.” – Department of Homeland Security
The U.S. and China resumed cooperation on deportations in May after political differences caused a suspension. While many commend the current vigilance, lawmakers raise concerns about the disparity between the number of deportations and apprehensions, questioning the criminal histories of those deported and the possibility of connections to espionage activities.
NEW – Homeland Security says in statement that ICE, on Nov. 16, "conducted a third large-frame charter removal flight in less than six months to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) of Chinese nationals with no lawful basis to remain" in the US. #Deportation relies on diplomacy.
— Sarah Matusek (@SarahMatusek) November 18, 2024
Espionage Worries Arise
There are fears that these incidents might be orchestrated efforts by the Chinese Communist Party to uncover U.S. security weaknesses, possibly laying the groundwork for future threats. Past episodes have seen federal charges against Chinese nationals trespassing on U.S. military bases, intensifying these security concerns.
Security officials continue to assess these developments in light of economic and national defensive interests. The opinions of lawmakers echo these sentiments, labeling China and the CCP as “grave threats” to U.S. security.
