Military and border corruption 

involves a range of illicit activities, such as bribery, human and drug trafficking, and embezzlement, often driven by factors like inadequate pay, weak oversight, and the pressure of organized crime. This can manifest as border officials accepting bribes to facilitate illegal crossings or smuggling, and can include more organized crime operations where agents provide protection or intelligence. 

Common forms of corruption

• Bribery: Officials accept payments to allow individuals or goods to cross borders illegally, or to ignore illegal activities.
• Human and drug smuggling: Corrupt officers may actively participate in or facilitate smuggling operations, sometimes in exchange for money.
• Embezzlement: Resources from border agencies are stolen or misappropriated.
• Nepotism: Promotions and hirings are based on personal relationships rather than merit.
• Information leaks: Sensitive law enforcement information is sold to criminal organizations. 

Contributing factors

• Weak oversight: Poor external oversight can allow corrupt practices to continue unchecked.
• High-pressure environments: The large number of people and goods crossing borders can create opportunities for corruption.
• Inadequate conditions: Low salaries and poor working conditions can make officials more susceptible to bribes.
• Organized crime: Criminal networks may pressure or co-opt officials into their operations. 

Consequences

• Compromised security: Corrupt officials may facilitate the entry of individuals who pose a national security risk.
• Empowered criminal networks: Corruption can strengthen the position of criminal groups by providing them with protection and intelligence.
• Abuse of power: This can lead to abuse against vulnerable populations.
• Erosion of public trust: Widespread corruption erodes public trust in law enforcement and government institutions. 

Border Corruption – FBI

The FBI helps combat the threat posed by public corruption at our nation’s borders and ports of entry. Every day, more than a million people enter the U.S. thro…

http://www.fbi.gov