This week, law enforcement reported that one of the suspicious envelopes delivered to the Manhattan ice office contained a rather arrogant note claiming to bring “karma” to immigrants.
The note was part of a package containing boric acid, discovered on Thursday in the mailroom located on the ninth floor of the 26 Federal Plaza. It included a return address linked to a building in Washington, D.C., and references to the “Anthrax Song,” with phrases like “a skeleton in the closet.”
The letter stated, “Tracing innocent people out of their freedom and walking beyond human rights is a crime that must be punished by men’s laws and God’s laws, and no one can escape the notes of karma.”
The powder was described ominously as “Xarhtna,” along with a threat mentioning aviation and family.
It was noted that six employees were present in the area—two of whom were in the contamination zone—leading authorities to quickly evacuate the federal buildings, which also house the U.S. Homeland Security Agency and immigration courts.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
As a precaution, 39 detainees were moved to New Jersey.
The agency is under significant pressure from critics advocating against illegal immigration policies from the White House.
According to an FBI New York official, preliminary test results indicated that no hazardous materials or biological toxins were found, allowing the 26 Federal Plaza to reopen later that night.
Tests confirmed that the white powder was boric acid, a chemical that may cause skin irritation. Inhalation could lead to shortness of breath, and ingesting it could result in vomiting.
The potentially contaminated envelope was sent to the FBI’s Quantico Lab in Virginia for additional analysis as the investigation commenced.
An ICE official expressed gratitude towards FDNY, NYPD, FBI, and FPS for their swift actions ensuring the safety of everyone in 26 Federal Plaza during this event. He added that the threats against ice workers will not deter Congress from its essential mission to protect public safety and national security in New York City and beyond.
