India, Sept. 17 -- The US Department of Homeland Security says the southern border has recorded 16 consecutive months without releasing migrants into the country after they are apprehended for illegally crossing. The milestone marks a major shift from the release practices seen during the previous administration, according to DHS and US Customs and Border Protection.

The key question for migrants who are caught crossing is what happens next. According to CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott, people who cross illegally are now being "apprehended, detained and removed" rather than released into the US. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has similarly said the administration has ended what it describes as "catch and release."

The first step is appreh...