U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s new Nogales Port Director Efrain Solis Jr. was sworn in during a formal change of command ceremony earlier today at the Mariposa crossing.
As the new port director, Solis will oversee operations in combating the flow of terrorist weapons and illicit drugs, and ensure immigration flows are carried out legally and responsibly. He is also responsible for ensuring customs and agriculture inspections are conducted in accordance with U.S. laws and regulations.
“The men and women in Nogales are dedicated and relentless in carrying out CBPs mission, and it is an honor to lead these individuals,” Solis said. “I am humbled to have been selected as the Port Director of Nogales. Additionally, I look forward to working as part of this team and with the local stakeholders. I am impressed with the current level of cooperation and collaboration already in place on both sides of the border.”
Solis’ responsibilities will include two major crossings – Dennis DeConcini and Mariposa – as well as the Morley pedestrian gate, Nogales International Airport and the Rio Rico railyard. He will have oversight of hundreds of employees at these locations, which includes CBP officers, Agriculture, Import and Mission Support specialists, and others.
Solis began his government career with the former U.S. Customs Service as a customs inspector at the Port of Brownsville in Texas. During his 25-plus years of federal service, he has held various leadership positions, including assistant port director-tactical/trade at Arizona’s Port of San Luis; assistant port director-tactical at the Port of Laredo in Texas; director, Alternative Funding Programs, Headquarters; and deputy commander, Joint Terrorism Task Force – West, South Texas corridor.