A South African national listed on the terrorist watchlist was apprehended in Brooklyn, New York, on Tuesday. The suspect had initially crossed into the United States illegally through Texas, where he was detained for criminal trespassing but later released into the country. He then traveled north to New York before his arrest.

Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens confirmed the arrest, stating, “A multi-agency effort led to the arrest of a South African national and suspected terrorist in Brooklyn, NY. Initially detained in Texas for criminal trespassing and based on information available at the time, the individual was released. A further subsequent investigation revealed a positive match on the terrorist watchlist, prompting swift action by USBP agents and personnel at the National Targeting Center. Thanks to the coordination of multiple agencies, this potential threat was located, taken into custody, and is now pending removal.”

BREAKING🚨
A multi-agency effort led to the arrest of a South African national and suspected terrorist in Brooklyn, NY. Initially detained in Texas for criminal trespassing and based on information available at the time, the individual was released. A further subsequent… pic.twitter.com/QFMfGCUN14

— Chief Jason Owens (@USBPChief) December 17, 2024

The Texas Department of Public Safety revealed that the illegal immigrant had been arrested in September on a ranch near Eagle Pass alongside 36 other illegal immigrants. He was handed over to federal border patrol agents at the time.

Incoming Border Czar Tom Homan has intensified his campaign to address border security, pledging to end what he describes as the “porous southern border” policies under President Joe Biden. Homan has been meeting with police chiefs, governors, and mayors nationwide, warning that obstruction of federal immigration law will not be tolerated under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.

“If he doesn’t want to help, get the hell out of the way,” Homan said, referencing Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “If he knowingly harbors or conceals an illegal alien – I will prosecute him.”

Homan has announced plans to deploy ICE agents en masse to sanctuary cities to carry out deportations and reiterated the administration’s focus on dismantling criminal cartels. He even encouraged illegal immigrants to “self-deport” before enforcement ramps up.

Johnson, however, criticized the deportation plans, alleging they are racially motivated. “His threat is not just towards new arrivals and undocumented families. His threats are also against Black families,” Johnson claimed, while reaffirming his city’s commitment to protecting undocumented individuals.

Johnson has yet to address how the influx of illegal immigrants has contributed to Chicago’s projected $1 billion budget deficit, despite the significant strain on city resources to feed and house the new arrivals.