US Army to control Mexico border area for 45 Days, migrant detentions expected

UPDATED: Apr 15, 2025 02:46 IST

A narrow piece of land bordering the US-Mexico border will soon be under the control of the US Army. In this shift, ordered by President Donald Trump, a federal strip of land called the Roosevelt Reservation will now form part of an Army base.

This could allow troops to detain trespassers, including migrants. The move is aimed to bypass a law that stops US troops from being used in domestic law enforcement in the country.

The Roosevelt Reservation, a 60-foot-wide federal area from New Mexico to California, had earlier been managed by the Interior Department. However, Trump's order is intended to shift this land to the Department of Defence.

While this transfer would enable the military to hold intruders, including migrants, the move might be challenged legally. US officials have indicated that while the Pentagon considers the plan, the current administration plans to utilise military personnel for holding migrants at the border.

US officials have indicated that the current administration plans to deploy military personnel to hold migrants along the border.

The Roosevelt Reservation is important as it serves as a buffer area on the border. Under a test program, the Army will control a section of this land near New Mexico for 45 days. During the period, the military will put up additional fencing and "no trespassing" signs. If someone trespasses there, they can be arrested by Army security troops.

However, any migrants who are arrested by the military will be turned over to local law enforcement agencies.

The Pentagon hasn't clarified if this step will necessitate more military personnel at the border. At present, more than 7,000 active-duty troops and about 4,600 Guard members are deployed along the border.

(With inputs from AP)