New Delhi, Dec. 6 -- US Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks said on Friday (December 5) that all illegal immigrants aged 14 and older who entered the country without inspection will now be charged a $5,000 "apprehension fee."

Banks noted that additional violations may also apply.

In a post on X, Banks said the policy applies to "all illegal aliens-regardless of where they entered, how long they've been in the U.S., their current location, or any ongoing immigration proceedings."

The announcement signals a sweeping tightening of enforcement as the Trump administration moves to accelerate removals.

The fee is included in the immigration package Trump signed into law in July-dubbed by the administration as the "big, beautiful bill."

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