MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Federal authorities are gearing up for a targeted immigration enforcement operation aimed at undocumented Somali immigrants in Minnesota. This operation has been planned amidst escalating rhetoric from President Donald Trump about the Somali community in the state. According to insiders, the operation may begin in the coming days and will focus on individuals in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area who have final orders of deportation.
The plunge into immigration enforcement is expected to heighten existing tensions as President Trump has intensified his criticisms of Somalis in America, suggesting they are burdensome and problematic. They contribute nothing. I don’t want them in our country, he stated recently, adding that their home country is no good for a reason. Minnesota holds the largest Somali population in the U.S., with many having fled conflict and instability in their homeland.
Minnesota officials, including Mayor Jacob Frey, have denounced the operation, arguing it could lead to violations of due process and unjust detentions based solely on appearance. The mayor affirmed that Minneapolis police, largely composed of Somali officers, will not cooperate with federal immigration agents.
Homeland Security has refrained from discussing any specific plans regarding the operation, emphasizing that their enforcement actions are focused solely on individuals illegally residing in the country.
President Trump’s recent statements have further aggravated the situation, as he claimed Somali immigrants are responsible for significant societal problems, which community leaders argue only serves to inflame hostility and encourage discrimination.
Despite heightened fears within the community, it is reported that a significant majority of Somalis in Minnesota are U.S. citizens, with estimates suggesting that around 95% have obtained citizenship. Local advocacy groups are prepared to respond to the forthcoming operations, seeing this as an extension of the political rhetoric aimed at discriminating against Muslim communities in America.
As plans for the operation come to light, many in the Somali community are anxiously anticipating its implications and the potential fallout from the federal crackdown.
