In a nationwide operation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) against illegal immigrants, 956 individuals were arrested. The operation took place last Sunday. ICE has stated that this is the largest operation since Donald Trump’s return to power.
British media outlets BBC and The Guardian reported this in their respective articles.
The two media outlets reported that the operation, conducted in various U.S. cities such as Chicago, New york (New Jersey), and Miami, involved several federal agencies with expanded powers.
During his campaign, Trump had pledged to deport illegal immigrants on a large scale. Upon taking office, he issued 21 executive orders to change the immigration system. The operation conducted in Chicago was overseen by Trump’s border advisor, Tom Homan. However, his tough measures have displeased Democratic leaders.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson acknowledged the ICE operation, stating that the Chicago Police did not participate. He advised residents to remain aware of their rights.
Multiple operations were conducted in Miami on Sunday, according to the city’s Homeland Security Investigations. ICE’s local office detained immigrants on various charges. One individual told Liberty News, “ICE took my wife. What they’re doing is shameful.” He claimed that his wife was in the process of obtaining citizenship.
New York Mayor Ras Baraka stated that during an ICE operation at a local business, an immigrant and a former soldier were detained without a warrant. He emphasized that New York residents would not be allowed to live in such fear.
Immigrant rights activists have warned that during the operation, even legal citizens and others could be mistakenly detained. ICE Director Tom Homan stated that, in addition to criminal immigrants caught in the operation, undocumented immigrants will also be deported.
Liberty News international correspondent reports that the number of arrests and deportations will continue to rise. Previously, 286 people were arrested on Saturday, 593 on Friday, and 538 on Thursday.
LND/SAKIB
