Immigration Agents Draw Guns, Arrest Activists in Minneapolis

Immigration officers with guns drawn arrested several activists who were following their vehicles on Tuesday in Minneapolis, signaling that tensions in the city remain high even after the departure last week of a prominent federal commander. At least one person wearing clothing with an anti-ICE message was handcuffed while lying face-down on the ground. An Associated Press photographer witnessed the arrests.

In recent weeks, federal agents in the Twin Cities have shifted tactics, carrying out more targeted immigration arrests at homes and in neighborhoods instead of gathering in large parking lots, according to the AP. Their convoys have been harder to locate and appear less confrontational. Alerts in activist group chats have focused more on sightings of officers than on confirmed detentions.

Several vehicles trailed officers through south Minneapolis after reports that agents were knocking on doors. Officers stopped, drew their weapons, and ordered the activists out of a car. Agents also told reporters at the scene to keep their distance and warned that pepper spray could be used.

Last month, a federal judge placed limits on how officers may handle motorists who follow them without interfering in their work. The judge wrote that safely following agents “at an appropriate distance does not, by itself, create reasonable suspicion to justify a vehicle stop.” However, an appeals court later set that order aside.

Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, who had been overseeing an immigration enforcement push in Minneapolis and other major U.S. cities, left the area last week following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, the second killing of a U.S. citizen in the area in January. President Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, was then sent to Minnesota. He cautioned that protesters could face consequences if they interfere with officers.

Tuesday also marked a deadline for the Minnesota governor, the state attorney general, and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul to submit documents to a federal grand jury. The Justice Department requested records related to any efforts to hinder the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement actions. Local officials criticized the request as an attempt to intimidate them.

A spokesperson for Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said the city is complying with the subpoena for documents concerning its response to Operation Metro Surge but declined to provide further details. “We have done nothing wrong and have nothing to hide, but when the federal government weaponizes the criminal justice system against political opponents, it’s important to stand up and fight back,” spokesperson Ally Peters said.

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