The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported the arrest of 956 undocumented immigrants in one day, marking the highest number recorded during Donald Trump's administration. This operation, led by the "border czar" Tom Homan along with other senior officials, took place on a Sunday in Chicago, highlighting a ramped-up enforcement of immigration policies following the national emergency declaration at the country’s southern border.
According to ICE statistics, the average daily arrests of non-citizens with criminal backgrounds or pending charges during the last fiscal year was 310.7. The number achieved on that Sunday signifies a notable increase and, as noted by Axios, illustrates the harsh approach adopted by the Trump administration.
Heightened Operations in Chicago
ICE indicated that the Chicago operation was supported by several federal agencies, including the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the U.S. Marshals Service. The stated aim of these raids was to "enforce immigration law and ensure public and national safety" by removing foreigners with criminal records.
On social media platform X, ICE shared images of Tom Homan alongside Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove overseeing the operations.
Responses and Concerns
Tom Homan stated on ABC's "This Week" that the number of arrests "will steadily increase," focusing on threats to national and public safety. Meanwhile, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized that the local police force is not assisting with these operations and urged residents to be aware of their constitutional rights.
The recent actions are part of a series of executive orders signed by Trump after assuming his second term, which include deploying troops at the border and conducting raids in churches and schools.
Key Questions on U.S. Immigration Enforcement
Why did ICE conduct such a large operation in Chicago?
The operation in Chicago was a part of a broader strategy to enforce immigration laws and ensure the safety of the public and nation by targeting individuals with criminal records.
How does the recent operation compare to past immigration enforcement actions?
The recent operation represents a significant increase in arrests compared to the average daily numbers from the previous fiscal year, reflecting the Trump administration's stringent immigration policy.
What was the reaction of local authorities in Chicago?
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson stated that the local police are not cooperating with the ICE operations and encouraged residents to know their constitutional rights.