CHICAGO – Federal agents, joined by top Trump administration officials, began targeted immigration enforcement operations across the Chicago area on Sunday morning.
The raids, conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with support from multiple federal agencies, aim to “enforce U.S. immigration law and preserve public safety,” according to an ICE spokesperson.
The operations, described as “enhanced targeted operations,” were focused on apprehending individuals identified as “potentially dangerous criminal aliens.” A source familiar with the situation stated that the arrests did not take place in churches or workplaces.
Ald. Daniel La Spata (1st) confirmed activity in the Logan Square area but noted it did not occur within his ward.
Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove and border czar Tom Homan were reportedly present in Chicago to observe the operations.
Photos shared by the DEA’s Chicago office showed officials from ICE, the DEA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives collaborating on the efforts. The FBI and U.S. Marshals Service were also involved.
While specifics regarding the number of arrests or targeted locations remain undisclosed, the involvement of multiple federal agencies highlights the scale of the operation.
In a related development, media personality Dr Phil announced via social media that he is embedded with Homan for the operation, with plans to share footage on his streaming platform, MeritTV.
The raids come amid ongoing debates over immigration enforcement, reflecting the Trump administration’s commitment to intensifying such efforts.
Chicago police on Sunday pointed toward previous statements saying they do not work with federal immigration authorities when asked if they were participating in today’s operation.
“In accordance with the City of Chicago’s Municipal Code, which includes the Welcoming City Ordinance, the Chicago Police Department does not assist federal immigration authorities with enforcement action solely based on immigration status,” the department said in a statement.
“Additionally, CPD does not document immigration status and does not share such information with federal authorities.”
Immigration officers visited at least 5 homes so far, Dr Phil’s TV channel claims.
“PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT" : Exclusive with @RealTomHoman
Major deportation operations are underway in Chicago, Illinois, with teams from multiple federal agencies. RAV’s @BenBergquam is on the ground alongside ICE officers as they target criminal illegal immigrants. Stay… pic.twitter.com/4n4Lup0idu— Real America's Voice (RAV) (@RealAmVoice) January 26, 2025