Texas troopers rescued a 10-year-old boy from El Salvador who was left crying and alone near the US-Mexico border after being abandoned by human smugglers. The incident, which occurred in Maverick County, is part of a growing crisis of unaccompanied minors facing exploitation and danger.

Texas DPS Lieutenant Chris Olivarez reported that the boy was found with only a phone, telling officers his smuggling guide had left him behind. The child was turned over to US Border Patrol. “As many of us are celebrating Thanksgiving, let’s not forget the children placed in dire situations due to open border conditions,” Olivarez said.

Operation Lone Star, a Texas initiative to combat human trafficking, recently recovered 60 unaccompanied minors, including toddlers. A 2-year-old girl from El Salvador was found abandoned with a note listing a name and phone number.

The Biden administration’s policies direct unaccompanied minors to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which places them with sponsors. However, reports show that many children face forced labor and trafficking, with over 320,000 unaccompanied minors reported missing under the current administration.

Critics argue that open border policies have fueled a crisis where smugglers and traffickers prey on vulnerable children. The lack of enforcement has left minors exposed to exploitation, raising questions about the administration’s ability to protect them.

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for stronger border policies. As the crisis continues, Americans must demand accountability and solutions to prevent further harm to innocent children.