Jorge Comas

Director, Counter Network Division, National Targeting Center
US Customs & Border Protection

Jorge Comas is the Director of the Counter Network Division at U.S. Customs & Border Protection’s (CBP) National Targeting Center. The Counter Network Division was established in 2015 to maximize the impact and contribution of CBP’s unique position in the United States government based on its authorities, data holdings, competencies, and partnerships. Mr. Comas is responsible for overseeing intregrated teams, comprised of CBP Officers, Border Patrol Agents, and CBP Intelligence Research Specialists who are augmented by liaisons from across the U.S. government, all-source analysts, and in-house analytic and targeting systems developers. These integrated teams focus on developing threat mitigation approaches that support national and homeland security strategies to counter transnational terror and criminal organzations impacting U.S. border operations.

Mr. Comas has previously served as the CBP National Security Advisor for the Office of the Commissioner. During his tenure in this capacity, Mr. Comas oversaw and developed CBP’s strategies related to response to the migrant surge at the U.S. Southern Border, Operation Allies Welcome, and the Russian/Ukranian conflict, among other world events.

Mr. Comas is a 24-year veteran of CBP, having begun his career at the Dulles International Airport, Washington, D.C. Mr. Comas has served in various roles throughout his career, focusing on targeting efforts in all passenger and cargo environments, including at the tactical, intelligence, programmatic, and oversight levels.

Sessions

Countering Terrorism
Addressing cross-border terrorism and the dangers posed by foreign terrorist fighters necessitates a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes international collaboration, intelligence sharing, and robust policy frameworks. Countries must join together to improve border security, fortify legal measures, and disrupt funding channels for terrorism. Through the exchange of intelligence and resources, nations can more effectively identify and monitor individuals engaged in cross-border activities linked to terrorism. Ultimately, only through a coordinated global effort will we be able to dismantle terrorist networks and build sustainable security.
Interagency Cooperation and Collaboration
It is widely acknowledged that interagency cooperation is the key to the effective border management, facilitating the movement of goods and people whilst simultaneously preventing bad actors from travelling and interdicting the movement of illicit goods. But what can be in practical terms on the ground to increase communication, share actionable intelligence and best practise.