A statement was released by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller following a violent incident near Brownsville, Texas. A U.S. citizen and Texas rancher lost their life due to an improvised explosive device (IED), underscoring the increasing threat of cartel activity along the southern border.

Miller emphasized the need for caution among those in the agricultural sector, particularly those traveling to Mexico or operating near the border. "The Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) is a crucial part of Texas agriculture, and the safety of our agricultural community is of utmost importance," he stated.

He advised members of the agricultural industry to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, encouraging them to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement. Miller also recommended avoiding dirt roads and remote areas, not touching unfamiliar objects that could be explosives, limiting travel to daylight hours, staying on main roads, and steering clear of cartel-controlled regions.

"Our agriculture family is the backbone of Texas," Miller noted, stressing the importance of taking all necessary precautions to ensure its protection.

The statement was disseminated by Maddison Jaureguito, Director of Communications.