President Donald Trump has made border security and illegal immigration an integral part of his actions during his first weeks in office. Multiple executive orders have focused on these issues, and numerous actions have taken place to remove illegal immigrants from the country, particularly those with violent criminal records. Now, barriers are being erected to deter criminal activity along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Federal officials put up World War II-style metal barriers on Wednesday along the border in New Mexico, according to reports. The structures resemble the metal “X-like” anti-tank obstacles known as Panzersperre or Czech hedgehogs that were positioned along the beaches of Normandy during D-Day. A modern-day version of these barriers were placed “on the western slope” of Mount Cristo Rey in Sunland Park, New Mexico.

The area is considered one of the most active corridors for illegal smuggling and human trafficking in the country, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. “The limited infrastructure and natural concealment in the Mt. Cristo Rey area provide a prime location for Transnational Criminal Organization to exploit and smuggle groups,” CBP said in a release.

“The hazardous terrain of Mt. Cristo Rey and its surrounding area continues to be exploited by Transnational Criminal Organizations,” Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez previously said. “The limited visibility during the hours of darkness and the steep terrain increases the risk of injuries for migrants exploited by smugglers that have complete disregard for human safety.”

In October 2024, Border Patrol said it encountered approximately 1,000 illegal migrants trying to enter the country near the U.S. border in New Mexico and western Texas during the last 12 months. This was a significant increase from the previous year. There were also multiple reports of border patrol agents being attacked in this area. 

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesman Landon Hutchens told Border Report that the World War II-type barriers are a “temporary” structure. Its primary purpose is to stop vehicles from entering the country from Mexico.

It is currently unknown how long the metal barriers will remain.