Federal immigration authorities apprehended nearly 200 undocumented immigrants last week during a four-day operation in Washington, D.C. This initiative, which ran from May 6th to May 9th, was aimed at foreign criminals, including members of notorious gangs like MS-13, Tren de Aragua, and the 18th Street Gang, according to ICE. In total, 189 individuals were arrested, and as part of the operation, agents notified 187 local businesses about compliance issues.
Russell Hott, the director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in D.C., stated, “The District of Columbia is much safer today thanks to the diligent efforts and research by ICE and our law enforcement partners.” He added that the focus was on the most dangerous foreign criminals in high-crime areas, emphasizing ICE’s commitment to enhancing public safety by targeting criminal offenders within the capital and its neighboring communities.
Reports indicate that ICE agents conducted inspections of I-9 employment forms at local restaurants to ensure staff were legally authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, ICE collaborated with various law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and DEA, to enhance the enforcement efforts.
Many of the arrests included individuals with extensive criminal backgrounds. For instance, one Salvadoran national was found with a history of simple assault, DUI, and even threats involving a machete.
Ed Martin, the U.S. attorney for D.C., praised this crackdown, suggesting it plays a significant role in making the city safer. He mentioned that President Trump’s leadership and these actions underscore a commitment to law and order, aimed at ensuring safety for all citizens.
While the D.C. office of Mayor Muriel Bowser did not provide immediate comments, it expressed concern about the nature of the arrests. Bowser remarked that the ICE operation seemed disorganized and not effectively targeting real criminals, describing it as somewhat chaotic.
