Washington: The White House announced on Thursday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will persist in conducting vehicle stops, despite recent deadly incidents. This decision has the backing of President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who both consider the tactic crucial.

According to Anadolu Agency, White House spokesperson Carolyn Leavitt addressed concerns regarding the continuation of vehicle stops and the measures in place to prevent further fatalities. She stated that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued verbal guidance to all field offices nationwide to ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Leavitt emphasized the administration's stance, saying, "The president and the secretary of Homeland Security are on the same page that vehicle stops are a necessary tool that ICE agents need in order to continue their deportation campaign of the worst of the worst illegal alien criminals from our country."

Regarding the use of body cameras, Leavitt reported that over half of ICE field offices are currently equipped with the technology, with the remaining offices expected to follow suit within 60 days. She assured that the administration is committed to "fully execute on the promise of body cams to all field offices."

The White House's remarks come in the wake of fatal ICE encounters in Maine and Texas that occurred in quick succession, prompting a temporary suspension of most vehicle stops by the agency.