An investigation by the Texas Observer and the Arizona Center for Investigative Reporting reported the presence and activities of vigilante groups along the U.S.-Mexico border. These vigilantes dress in camouflage clothing, wear tactical gear, and frequently detain and threaten migrants, sharing their activities online to solicit donations and recruit new members. They have established relationships with local and federal authorities, especially in Arizona and Texas, increasing the risk of violence and raising questions about the legality of these collaborations.

According to the investigation, some police officers and local authorities have shown connivance or even collaboration with these vigilantes, which include individuals with criminal records carrying weapons illegally. In addition, authorities fail to arrest or charge vigilantes filmed committing crimes. Some members of these groups pose as humanitarians, helping migrants, while others spread conspiracy theories and damage humanitarian water stations.

Anti-immigrant vigilante groups have a long history at the border, dating back to the 1970s. The current political rhetoric about an "invasion" of migrants has encouraged these activities, especially with the 2024 elections approaching and the rhetoric of figures such as Donald Trump. Leaders such as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott have made controversial statements about using violence to detain migrants.

Although militias are illegal in Arizona and Texas, the lack of action against vigilantes encourages their activities. Cade Lamb, the son of the sheriff of Pinal County, Arizona, founded a vigilante organization that has collaborated with local authorities. Other militias, such as the Patriots for America and Veterans on Patrol, have been publicizing their relationships with federal agents to solicit support and donations.

The publication mentions that collaboration between authorities and vigilantes can have serious consequences, citing a 2019 case in New Mexico where the militia illegally detained migrants at gunpoint. The lack of clear federal guidelines for interactions with vigilantes is singled out as a problem, with Senator Ed Markey proposing legislation to impose criminal penalties on unauthorized armed militia activities.

“U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat, identified this federal policy deficit in a letter last year in response to vigilante activity in Texas and Arizona by Patriots for America and Veterans on Patrol. The letter—sent to top officials at the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, and CBP—described how border vigilantes have engaged in ‘unofficial or unsanctioned collaboration with law enforcement agents’. Without federal action, the letter states, ‘Vigilante groups will continue to operate and weaken the government’s ability to maintain migrant safety, protect human rights, and defend the rule of law at the border’.

In short, the presence of vigilantes at the border, the connivance of some authorities, and the lack of clear federal policies are troubling issues that potentially increase violence and violate the human rights of migrants.