Washington, Dec 17 (TIWN) The US federal government is taking Arizona and its top officials to court, demanding the state remove a makeshift border wall along the Mexico border constructed of garish shipping containers, but the outgoing Republican Governor shows no signs of relenting.

But in its lawsuit, the government claimed Arizona was trespassing on federal lands.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been detained while attempting to cross the border in recent months.

President Joe Biden has been criticised by opponents - including Republican Governor Ducey - over his administration's handling of border issues.

The legal action comes three weeks before Governor Ducey's last day in office, when he will step aside for Democrat Katie Hobbs who has previously said she opposes the barrier.