A Complex Border Security Challenge
RCMP officers patrol Quebec’s 815-kilometer border using helicopters, drones, boats, and ATVs, often engaging in a high-stakes “cat-and-mouse game” to intercept illegal crossings. Recently, officers discovered tracks in the snow and remnants like a child’s plush toy, evidence of a family crossing with a smuggler—known as a “coyote.” These guides often lead migrants through forests to waiting vehicles that transport them to cities like Montreal or Toronto.
Smuggling fees have skyrocketed, with some coyotes charging up to $45,000 for safe passage. According to Richard Kurland, a Vancouver immigration lawyer, these exorbitant fees may be funding criminal or terrorist activities. “Smuggling is a significant revenue stream for dangerous organizations,” he warned.
A Shifting Migrant Landscape
Local residents near the border have observed changing migration patterns over the years, influenced by global crises. Quebec resident Louise Gobeil, who lives steps from the U.S. border, has witnessed migrants fleeing war, gang violence, and political instability. However, she notes an uptick in northbound crossings since Trump’s election, as migrants seek refuge from his administration’s policies.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection data reveals a near doubling of illegal crossings from Canada in 2024 compared to the previous year, with over 19,000 recorded from January to September alone.
Preparing for a Potential Surge
The RCMP is bracing for an influx of migrants as Trump prepares to deport millions of undocumented individuals. Contingency plans include deploying additional officers to border units and constructing temporary facilities, echoing measures taken during the Roxham Road surge in 2022. While Quebec has seen a significant reduction in crossings since the Safe Third Country Agreement amendment in 2023, officials warn of potential spikes at other vulnerable points.
Smugglers Adapt to Border Security Measures
Smugglers have increasingly used online platforms to share routes and strategies, further complicating enforcement efforts. Social media posts detailing border crossings have drawn more migrants to rural areas like Franklin. Some migrants abandon vehicles at the border to avoid detection, opting for risky foot crossings through dense forests.
A Growing Bilateral Concern
Both Canadian and American officials acknowledge the growing challenges at the northern border. Trump’s pick for border czar, Tom Holman, has labeled the region a “huge national security issue.” In response, the RCMP continues to collaborate with U.S. authorities to apprehend migrants and smugglers, leveraging advanced surveillance and intelligence-sharing.
As geopolitical tensions rise and smuggling networks evolve, the Canada-U.S. border remains a flashpoint for migration and security issues. For local residents, law enforcement, and migrants alike, the stakes are higher than ever in this changing landscape.
