Federal Crackdown on Immigration in Minneapolis Sparks Controversy

Sat Dec 06 2025 00:55:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent ICE operation in Minneapolis targeting undocumented immigrants, particularly within the Somali community, has led to widespread criticism and tensions between local officials and federal authorities.

Federal agents arrested a dozen individuals in Minneapolis, primarily focusing on those living unlawfully in the U.S. While the operation aimed at the large Somali community, only five of those detained are Somali. Local officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have condemned the actions taken, vowing to stand by the community amid harsh rhetoric from the Trump administration.

Federal agents have carried out numerous arrests in Minneapolis as they launched a crackdown targeting undocumented immigrants within the city, specifically from the Somali community. However, it has been reported that less than half of those detained are actually Somali.

According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a total of 12 individuals were apprehended during the operation, with six being Mexican nationals, five Somali, and one from El Salvador.

This operation comes as part of a broader initiative led by the Trump administration that has seen similar enforcement actions in cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Reports indicate authorities are also extending their efforts to New Orleans with intentions to arrest up to 5,000 people.

ICE described those arrested in Minneapolis as some of the 'worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens,' citing that eight of them have been charged or convicted of serious crimes, including assault, fraud, and driving under the influence.

Recently, President Trump made controversial statements regarding Somali immigrants, labeling them as 'garbage' and claiming they contribute nothing to society. He further criticized Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, suggesting that the governor allowed alleged fraud in government programs to occur under his watch, which allegedly diverted funds to a Somali militant group.

This offensive has met fierce backlash from local and state officials advocating for immigrant rights. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has adamantly stated that city police will not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement actions. In response, ICE's leadership has accused Mayor Frey and Governor Walz of failing to uphold immigration laws, asserting that they jeopardize public safety.