The Department of Homeland Security said Tuesday that U.S. Customs and Border Protection released no migrants into the United States for the third consecutive month in July, marking what officials called the definitive end of the catch-and-release practice once common at the southern border. CBP recorded 24,628 nationwide encounters in July, including 6,177 apprehensions by Border Patrol agents, a level the agency described as the lowest monthly total ever and roughly 90% below the figure for the same month a year earlier. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem credited new physical barriers, expanded detention capacity and stricter processing rules for the results, declaring, “History made, again. The numbers don’t lie—this is the most secure the border has ever been.” CBP also reported seizing 968 pounds of fentanyl in July, 30% more than in June. The milestone advances President Donald Trump’s campaign pledge to dismantle catch-and-release policies. Since January, CBP says it has collected $140.8 billion in tariffs, taxes and fees while stepping up border and economic enforcement.