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Federal immigration operation in Minnesota concludes
U.S. border enforcement chief Tom Homan announced Thursday that the large-scale immigration crackdown in Minnesota, known as Operation Metro Surge, will wrap up after President Donald Trump approved the request to terminate the deployment.
Homan to oversee transition
Homan confirmed he will remain in Minnesota briefly to manage the withdrawal of federal agents, ensuring a smooth transition. The operation, which deployed over 2,000 immigration officers to the state, sparked nationwide backlash following the deaths of two U.S. citizens at the hands of federal agents last month.
State cooperation praised
During a press conference, Homan stated that Minnesota has shifted away from being a sanctuary state due to increased collaboration between local authorities and federal immigration officials. He described the operation as a "great success," citing a significant reduction in enforcement targets.
Arrests and ongoing presence
Homan highlighted the detention of several undocumented immigrants, whom he referred to as "illegal aliens," including individuals convicted of rape and other sexual offenses. Despite the drawdown, he emphasized that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will maintain a limited presence in the state to finalize operations and transfer control back to the local field office.
"A small footprint of personnel will remain for a period of time to close out and transition full command and control back to the field office."
Tom Homan, U.S. Border Enforcement Chief
Nationwide protests and future operations
The surge in Minnesota drew widespread criticism and protests across the country. Homan reiterated that ICE has always operated in the state and will continue to do so, though on a smaller scale.
