The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has deported over 1,100 Indian nationals in the 2023-24 fiscal year, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address illegal immigration. This includes a large-scale charter flight repatriation on October 22, involving adults who did not have legal grounds to remain in the US. The DHS emphasizes smooth coordination with the Indian government in facilitating these deportations.
A former FBI agent raises concerns that the true number of Venezuelan gang members in the US may be higher than reported by DHS, warning of a potential threat. This follows reports that DHS approved refugee applications for members of the Tren de Aragua gang, known for its violent activities across the Americas. The agency is now scrambling to address the issue, but the situation highlights vulnerabilities in immigration screening and the growing threat of transnational organized crime.
A Department of Homeland Security official, Wilson Osorio, has been accused of promoting illegal immigration on social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok, according to a new report by a conservative organization. Osorio, an associate counsel at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), allegedly posted videos encouraging illegal immigrants to enter the U.S., highlighting potential financial benefits and downplaying the risks involved. The report sparked outrage among Republicans, with Senator Mike Lee calling it a ‘severe breach of public trust’ and a reflection of the Biden administration’s immigration policies. DHS has declined to comment on the allegations.
DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has come under fire for his handling of Hurricane Helene relief efforts, including a visit to a high-end sushi restaurant in Washington, D.C. shortly after touring storm-damaged North Carolina. Critics have accused Mayorkas of prioritizing personal leisure over the needs of disaster victims, while he insists the federal government is fully committed to assisting those affected by the hurricane.
A bipartisan group of over 75 House lawmakers is urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to take decisive action against organized retail crime (ORC), citing its increasing impact on businesses, communities, and public safety. The lawmakers are specifically calling for the establishment of an organized retail crime coordination center within DHS to enhance law enforcement efforts and mitigate the threats posed by these criminal networks.
A group of bipartisan senators, including members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, are demanding answers from the FBI and DHS regarding an alleged Iranian agent charged with orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot that may have targeted former President Trump. The senators are seeking information about the FBI’s knowledge of the suspect, Asif Merchant, and the circumstances surrounding his entry into the United States.
The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has expressed support for the Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act, a new bill that would mandate the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to create a certification program for businesses that train their employees on recognizing and responding to suspected human trafficking. The bill would provide important third-party validation for hotels’ training and prevention initiatives.
A report by the Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General (OIG) highlights vulnerabilities in the parole process for Afghan evacuees. The report found that the three main DHS components involved in the process have separate and potentially fragmented approaches, leading to gaps in responsibility and monitoring. The OIG recommends guidelines for terminating parole, clarifying responsibilities, and improving the handling of derogatory information. DHS acknowledges the concerns raised but defends its approach, citing national security and public safety considerations.
The Biden administration has agreed to disband the Homeland Intelligence Experts Group, following a lawsuit alleging violations of federal law. The group, announced by DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in September, comprised private-sector figures tasked with providing perspectives on national security. Critics argued it lacked neutrality, citing the involvement of former intelligence officials accused of partisanship. The lawsuit, filed by America First Legal, alleged bias and noncompliance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act. As part of the settlement, DHS will wind down the group within 30 days and release meeting agendas and minutes within 15 days. AFL hailed the outcome as a victory while DHS maintains its position that the group did not violate the law.
Lawmakers from both parties are calling on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide answers regarding recent cyberattacks on water systems in rural Texas. The attacks, which have been linked to Russian hackers, have raised concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats.
