Federal and state authorities in Texas recently reported a wave of arrests, including a multi-agency crackdown in the Rio Grande Valley, a major marijuana warehouse bust in Stafford, and a human smuggling attempt in Del Rio.
This has amounted to 99 aliens reportedly being arrested in three enforcement actions across the state in roughly one week.
1. Operation Pick-Off Arrests Nearly 80 Criminal Aliens in the Rio Grande Valley
Unapologetic Border Enforcement
RGV Agents, with DOJ, FBI, HSI & ICE, arrested 78 criminal aliens. Illegal entry won’t be tolerated—return via CBP Home app or face arrest & deportation. https://t.co/0Xq5HTlejK
🇺🇸 Honor First! pic.twitter.com/KGHPQRgJyO
— Jason E. Schneider, (Acting) Chief Patrol Agent (@USBPChiefRGV) August 27, 2025
According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, the sweep, dubbed “Operation Pick-Off,” began August 22 and continued through the weekend across Cameron, Willacy, Hidalgo, and Starr Counties.
A total of 78 individuals were taken into custody, the majority for allegedly reentering the U.S. illegally after deportation. Many were already serving probation for crimes ranging from drug offenses and human smuggling to burglary and assault. If convicted, some may face up to 20 years in federal prison.
The effort was coordinated under the DOJ’s Operation Take Back America, with the FBI, ICE, DEA, ATF, Texas DPS, and other agencies participating.
2. DEA Bust in Stafford Uncovers 1,200 Pounds of Marijuana, 18 Undocumented Workers
Great working with @DEAHoustondiv & @Stafford_PD on this operation targeting suspected drug trafficking & illegal immigration! There is no place in this country for illegal aliens who traffic dangerous illicit narcotics in our communities, and we won't rest until they're gone. https://t.co/sMEiOGRM2d
— ICE Houston (@EROHouston) August 29, 2025
Most of the nationals were from Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, with ICE processing them for deportation, per Fox 26 Houston.
3. Del Rio Agents Rescue Migrants from Smuggling Toolbox
Don’t be a tool- never trust criminal smugglers! Outside temps were around 100° when our agents found these illegal aliens in a cramped toolbox. The driver faces a felony smuggling charge and all 3 illegal aliens will face deportation. pic.twitter.com/CdSOj5N3bE
— U.S. Border Patrol Del Rio Sector (@USBPChiefDRT) September 3, 2025
Agents discovered three migrants crammed into a metal toolbox in extreme heat. Authorities claimed to have arrested the driver on felony smuggling charges.
Texas Takedown Weekly is a recurring series from The Dallas Express chronicling the most significant immigration-related arrests and interdictions across the state. To read last week’s edition, click Texas Takedown Weekly: Drunk Illegal Aliens And $14 Million Of Meth (August 29, 2025).