Federal immigration officials apprehended over 400 undocumented immigrants, including individuals with serious criminal histories like pedophiles and rapists, during Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. Authorities assert that this operation was essential due to state and local policies that allowed dangerous offenders to remain at large. Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, criticized Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for not adequately protecting residents.
“Since we initiated Operation Metro Surge, ICE officers have detained more than 400 undocumented individuals, including serious offenders,” McLaughlin noted. “Walz and Frey have not taken the necessary measures to safeguard Minnesotans. These individuals, including child predators, were allowed to roam freely. Thanks to the diligent work of our law enforcement, the streets of Minnesota are now safer. Rather than acknowledging our law enforcement’s efforts to rid communities of crime, Walz and Frey continue to disparage them.”
The DHS highlighted some of the most egregious cases of undocumented immigrants apprehended during this operation:
Van de La Sein, 47, an undocumented immigrant from Burma, was convicted in Nobles County for third-degree criminal sexual conduct with force. He received a four-year prison sentence, which was suspended for ten years. A final exclusion order has been active against him since February 27, 2014.
Vanaryut Keomany, 59, from Laos, was convicted of two counts of rape in Columbus, Ohio, and sentenced to seven years in prison. He has been under a final exclusion order since December 17, 2009.
Singh Razmikam, 52, another undocumented immigrant from Laos, was convicted in Roseau County for fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct or extortion. He received an 18-month sentence, suspended for ten years, and has been under a final dismissal order since March 30, 2004.
Liban Ali Osman, 43, from Somalia, was found guilty of robbery in Columbus, Ohio, resulting in a three-year prison term. A final dismissal order had been in effect since May 17, 2011.
Thu Van, 42, from Laos, was convicted of first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a child under 13 and has been under a final deportation order since October 31, 2006.
Pol Mua, a 50-year-old from Laos, was convicted of first-degree serious bodily harm and received a 14-year and seven-month prison sentence. His record also includes sentences for sexual offenses and false imprisonment, and he has been under a final removal order since October 31, 2000.
Javier Brumaro Turbiartes, 49, a Mexican immigrant, was arrested for soliciting sexual acts from a minor through electronic communication and received a 75-day prison sentence.
Somvan Prachansiri, a 63-year-old from Laos, was convicted of third-degree sexual battery and second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon, totaling an eight-year and six-month prison sentence. He has been under a final eviction order since May 23, 2001.
Angel Edwin Quiquintuna Kapus, 26, from Ecuador, was convicted of robbery in Columbus, Ohio, and sentenced to three years in prison. He is also facing multiple charges, including DUI and assaulting a police officer.
Joel Cuotor Ocelotl, 51, a criminal alien from Mexico, was convicted of third-degree assault with intent to harm in New York and driving under the influence in Minnesota. He has been under a removal order since February 3, 2010, which was reinstated multiple times thereafter.
DHS initiated Operation Metro Surge targeting highly dangerous individuals who have been sheltered by local sanctuary policies. Recently, officials introduced an interactive database for more information on the types and numbers of criminal aliens removed during previous administrations.
