U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the arrest of several individuals in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as part of Operation Metro Surge. The operation began on December 1, 2025, and focused on people with criminal records, including offenses such as child sexual abuse, domestic violence, and gang activity. ICE stated that these arrests occurred despite local sanctuary policies, which the agency says can make enforcement more difficult.
Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin commented on the role of local officials, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, in supporting sanctuary policies. She said ICE agents are working to protect residents, while local officials have different approaches. McLaughlin said ICE will continue to locate, arrest, and deport individuals with criminal convictions, regardless of local policies.
Those arrested include Abdulkadir Sharif Abdi, a Somali national with convictions for fraud and vehicle theft, and Sahal Osman Shidane, also from Somalia, convicted of sexual conduct with a minor. Others detained are from Mexico and El Salvador, with charges or convictions such as aggravated assault, domestic violence, and driving under the influence…