US Deports Over 15,000 Illegal Migrants Since Trump's Presidency, DHS Reports
The United States has deported tens of thousands of illegal migrants since former President Donald Trump assumed office, according to recent figures released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Officials reported that the total number of removals, which includes unauthorized migrants and convicted criminals, represents the highest annual figure in over a decade.
Surge in Formal Removals and Voluntary Departures
The DHS stated that since Trump took office, more than 15,200 people residing illegally in the US have been formally removed, marking a significant 45% increase compared to the prior period. In addition, approximately 43,000 individuals left voluntarily after being informed they were in the country unlawfully.
Deportations of foreign national offenders have also risen sharply, with a 32% increase resulting in over 8,700 individuals removed under Trump's administration. The DHS released video footage of recent removal operations, showing individuals with blurred faces being escorted onto flights destined for their home countries.
US Vows to Increase Deportation Efforts
US officials have emphasized that deportations will continue to rise as part of broader efforts to enforce immigration laws. The DHS has indicated plans to strengthen removal procedures and limit avenues for appeals that have previously delayed deportations.
A DHS spokesperson said: "We continue to prioritize the removal of individuals who are in the country unlawfully, particularly those who have committed criminal offences. We remain committed to ensuring that individuals without legal status are returned to their countries of origin in a safe and orderly manner. Our enforcement efforts will continue to be robust."
Growing Debate Over US Migration Policy
The announcement comes amid growing debate over migration policy in the US, with critics warning that enforcement-focused measures risk promoting harmful stereotypes by linking migration with criminality. This debate intensifies as the DHS updates its deportation lists, including recent additions of Nigerians.
In February 2026, the DHS added 18 Nigerians to its deportation list, bringing the total number of individuals set for removal to 97. This update was part of a coordinated crackdown across several US states led by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials.
US Set to Deport 79 Nigerians in Crackdown
Previously, the DHS announced plans to deport no fewer than 79 Nigerians, who were reportedly convicted of various criminal offences as part of an intensified crackdown on criminal immigrants under Trump's administration. The affected Nigerians were listed among what the DHS described as the "worst-of-the-worst" criminal aliens arrested by ICE.
Findings from the DHS website indicate that the Nigerians slated for deportation were convicted of offences ranging from fraud and drug trafficking to assault, robbery, and manslaughter. This move underscores the administration's focus on removing individuals with criminal records from the US.
