After tightening US visa rules for H1B workers and international students, and launching large-scale Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that have led to the detention and deportation of thousands of immigrants, US President Donald Trump has now turned his attention to the trucking industry. He said his administration is cracking down on unauthorised immigrant truck drivers and wants to replace them with American military veterans.&nbsp;Trump blamed immigrant truck drivers for road accidents, claiming many of them are unable to read road signs and are under the influence of drugs. He alleged that they are "killing a lot of people."However, there is no comprehensive study linking immigrant truck drivers specifically to a higher number of road accidents. Foreign nationals seeking to drive commercial trucks in the United States must have valid work authorisation and complete the same licensing process as any other American driver, including attending driving school and passing the required tests.&nbsp;The President also announced that "any American who has driven a heavy truck for our military will automatically be eligible for a commercial driver's license." He, however, did not provide further details about how the proposal would be implemented.&nbsp;Trump's remarks, made during a military investment summit in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, appeared to reflect a broader push by his administration to curb commercial driving opportunities for immigrants, including those who are legally residing in the country. According to The New York Times, around 200,000 immigrant drivers who were authorised to live and work in the United States lost their licences in March.&nbsp;In April 2025, Trump signed an executive order directing the Transportation Department to enforce English language requirements for commercial drivers and review the licences of foreign citizens authorised to work in the United States.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-magnitude-7-4-jolts-mexico-tsunami-warning-issued-1784301406792">Earthquake of magnitude 7.3 jolts Mexico, tsunami warning issued</a><h2>Indian-origin truck drivers could face a major impact</h2>If Trump moves ahead with the proposal, it could affect more than 1.5 lakh Indian origin truck drivers working in the United States, potentially forcing many to switch professions or face deportation to India.&nbsp;According to the North American Punjabi Truckers Association, around 1.3 lakh to 1.5 lakh truck drivers in the United States are from Punjab and Haryana. The community has already been affected by earlier policy changes, including mandatory English proficiency requirements and the recently enacted Dalilah Law, which halted the issuance of commercial driver's licences to immigrants, according to India Today.

Trump has proposed replacing immigrant truck drivers with US Army veterans as part of his latest immigration crackdown, a move that could affect more than 1.5 lakh Indian-origin drivers working in the United States.

After tightening US visa rules for H1B workers and international students, and launching large-scale Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that have led to the detention and deportation of thousands of immigrants, US President Donald Trump has now turned his attention to the trucking industry. He said his administration is cracking down on unauthorised immigrant truck drivers and wants to replace them with American military veterans. Trump blamed immigrant truck drivers for road accidents, claiming many of them are unable to read road signs and are under the influence of drugs. He alleged that they are "killing a lot of people." However, there is no comprehensive study linking immigrant truck drivers specifically to a higher number of road accidents. Foreign nationals seeking to drive commercial trucks in the United States must have valid work authorisation and complete the same licensing process as any other American driver, including attending driving school and passing the required tests. The President also announced that "any American who has driven a heavy truck for our military will automatically be eligible for a commercial driver's license." He, however, did not provide further details about how the proposal would be implemented. Trump's remarks, made during a military investment summit in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, appeared to reflect a broader push by his administration to curb commercial driving opportunities for immigrants, including those who are legally residing in the country. According to The New York Times, around 200,000 immigrant drivers who were authorised to live and work in the United States lost their licences in March. In April 2025, Trump signed an executive order directing the Transportation Department to enforce English language requirements for commercial drivers and review the licences of foreign citizens authorised to work in the United States. Also Read: Earthquake of magnitude 7.3 jolts Mexico, tsunami warning issued Indian-origin truck drivers could face a major impact If Trump moves ahead with the proposal, it could affect more than 1.5 lakh Indian origin truck drivers working in the United States, potentially forcing many to switch professions or face deportation to India. According to the North American Punjabi Truckers Association, around 1.3 lakh to 1.5 lakh truck drivers in the United States are from Punjab and Haryana. The community has already been affected by earlier policy changes, including mandatory English proficiency requirements and the recently enacted Dalilah Law, which halted the issuance of commercial driver's licences to immigrants, according to India Today.

Trump has proposed replacing immigrant truck drivers with US Army veterans as part of his latest immigration crackdown, a move that could affect more than 1.5 lakh Indian-origin drivers working in the United States.

Trump's proposal to replace immigrant truckers with Army veterans may hit over 1.5 lakh Indian drivers

In the past year, more babies have landed behind bars in America than ever before, according to a new report. Shockingly, the number of children aged three and under thrown in detention under US President Donald Trump's administration has skyrocketed. The numbers show that compared to the previous Joe Biden administration, ICE detentions of young children rose by 10 times.The report, published by MS NOW and The Marshall Project, analysed records obtained through the Deportation Data Project and found a sharp increase in the number of children aged three and under being held by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pam-bondi-throws-todd-blanche-under-the-bus-blames-trump-s-new-doj-chief-pick-for-epstein-files-fiasco-1780644454937">'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release</a><h2>Over two dozen children in detention every day</h2>According to the analysis, on any given day, ICE held an average of 25 babies and toddlers in custody between January 2025 and March 2026. Researchers estimate that at least 500 children of this age have passed through ICE detention facilities since Trump began his second term.The figures mark a significant increase from the final year of former President Joe Biden's administration. During the previous 12 months, fewer than three children aged three and under were held in ICE custody on an average day, the report said.

Children hold signs on the stoop of a house as protesters march from Powderhorn Park in Minneapolis against Immigration

<h2>Human rights flouted?</h2>The investigation, as cited by The Daily Beast, also found that at least 175 babies and toddlers were detained for longer than the 20-day limit established under court rulings tied to the 1997 settlement in Flores v. Reno.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-taliban-commander-haji-najibullah-who-kidnapped-nyt-journalist-killed-us-troops-sentenced-to-42-years-in-prison-1781058434173">Ex-Taliban commander who kidnapped journalist, killed US troops sentenced to 42 years in prison</a>Child health experts cited in the MS Now report warned that detention can have lasting consequences for very young children, particularly during critical stages of development. Marsha Griffin, a paediatrics professor and co-founder of the American Academy of Pediatrics' Council on Immigrant Child and Family Health, told the publication that infancy and toddlerhood are among the most vulnerable periods in a child's life. The period from infancy through toddlerhood is "probably the most harmful time of their lives to have them in detention," Griffin said.<h2>DHS slaps back on criticism</h2>The Department of Homeland Security pushed back against criticism of its policies. In a statement provided to The Daily Beast, a DHS spokesperson said ICE "is not targeting children or separating families".The department said parents facing deportation are asked: "if they want to be removed with their children or ICE will place the children with a safe person the parent designates". The official argued that the policy is consistent with practices used by previous administrations.

A new report claims ICE detentions of children aged three and under increased tenfold under Donald Trump's administration, with hundreds of babies and toddlers passing through detention facilities.

In the past year, more babies have landed behind bars in America than ever before, according to a new report. Shockingly, the number of children aged three and under thrown in detention under US President Donald Trump's administration has skyrocketed. The numbers show that compared to the previous Joe Biden administration, ICE detentions of young children rose by 10 times. The report, published by MS NOW and The Marshall Project, analysed records obtained through the Deportation Data Project and found a sharp increase in the number of children aged three and under being held by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Also read | 'He was in charge': Pam Bondi REVEALS who was really behind the botched Epstein files release Over two dozen children in detention every day According to the analysis, on any given day, ICE held an average of 25 babies and toddlers in custody between January 2025 and March 2026. Researchers estimate that at least 500 children of this age have passed through ICE detention facilities since Trump began his second term. The figures mark a significant increase from the final year of former President Joe Biden's administration. During the previous 12 months, fewer than three children aged three and under were held in ICE custody on an average day, the report said.

A new investigation claims the number of babies and toddlers held in US immigration detention has surged under Donald Trump's second administration. Researchers say hundreds of children aged three and under have passed through ICE custody, raising concerns. All you need to know.

More babies behind bars than ever before? Report reveals 10-fold surge in ICE detentions under Trump

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has entered a partial shutdown after its funding lapsed at 12:01 am on Saturday (Feb 14) as the White House and Democratic leaders continued to discuss immigration enforcement policy after the killing of two US citizens by federal agents in Minnesota last month. This comes after the Senate failed to pass the 60-vote threshold required to pass the DHS appropriations bill, and lawmakers left Washington over the weekend.Democrats have vowed that they would not approve the funding until new restrictions are place operations related to US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown following the fatal shooting of Renee Good and Alex Pretti last month. They have demanded reforms in the way Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents operate.<h2>Will ICE continue to operate?</h2>ICE and CBP operations are expected to remain unaffected as they are deemed essential services, falling under Trump’s “big beautiful bill” that guarantees their funding. Although the services, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema), are expected to face disruptions.While the Republicans have agreed to agents wearing body cameras, they have resisted other proposals, including agents being required to obtain judicial warrants, signed by a judge, before entering private property.Meanwhile, Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, on Thursday (Feb 12) announced that the administration is ending its large-scale anti-migrant operation, Operation Metro Surge, in Minnesota. The move comes after weeks of outrage and protests following the killing of two by federal agents during the demonstrations.Last month, Trump’s federal crackdown against illegal immigrants sparked outrage after immigration officers killed two US citizens. A 37-year-old mother of three, Renee Good, was shot dead in her car by an ICE agent in Minneapolis on January 7. Another American citizen, Alex Pretti, an intensive-care nurse, was shot by federal agents while trying to help other protesters on January 24.

Homeland Security entered a partial shutdown after lawmakers failed to pass funding, amid a dispute over immigration policy following two fatal shootings in Minnesota. Will ICE continue to operate?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has entered a partial shutdown after its funding lapsed at 12:01 am on Saturday (Feb 14) as the White House and Democratic leaders continued to discuss immigration enforcement policy after the killing of two US citizens by federal agents in Minnesota last month. This comes after the Senate failed to pass the 60-vote threshold required to pass the DHS appropriations bill, and lawmakers left Washington over the weekend. Democrats have vowed that they would not approve the funding until new restrictions are place operations related to US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown following the fatal shooting of Renee Good and Alex Pretti last month. They have demanded reforms in the way Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents operate. Will ICE continue to operate? ICE and CBP operations are expected to remain unaffected as they are deemed essential services, falling under Trump’s “big beautiful bill” that guarantees their funding. Although the services, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema), are expected to face disruptions. While the Republicans have agreed to agents wearing body cameras, they have resisted other proposals, including agents being required to obtain judicial warrants, signed by a judge, before entering private property. Meanwhile, Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, on Thursday (Feb 12) announced that the administration is ending its large-scale anti-migrant operation, Operation Metro Surge, in Minnesota. The move comes after weeks of outrage and protests following the killing of two by federal agents during the demonstrations. Last month, Trump’s federal crackdown against illegal immigrants sparked outrage after immigration officers killed two US citizens. A 37-year-old mother of three, Renee Good, was shot dead in her car by an ICE agent in Minneapolis on January 7. Another American citizen, Alex Pretti, an intensive-care nurse, was shot by federal agents while trying to help other protesters on January 24.

Homeland Security entered a partial shutdown after lawmakers failed to pass funding, amid a dispute over immigration policy following two fatal shootings in Minnesota. Will ICE continue to operate?

Will ICE operate despite DHS shutdown as funding lapses over Minnesota federal killings?

Trump’s administration is expanding ICE detention nationwide with a $38B plan to convert warehouses into facilities, boosting capacity and accelerating deportations amid growing political backlash.

From warehouses to ICE facilities: Trump’s $38 billion ‘mass deportation’ plan for 92,000 illegal aliens in detention centres

US President Donald Trump’s administration is set to spend $38 billion on a plan to acquire warehouses across the country and turn them into immigration detention centres with a capacity for tens of thousands of individuals. The expansion is expected to streamline and speed up the deportation of illegal aliens amid the large-scale US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.According to published documents sent to the governor of New Hampshire by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has disclosed that it will spend an estimated $158 million retrofitting a new detention facility in Merrimack, New Hampshire, and another $146m to operate the facility in the first three years.The plan, Detention Reengineering Initiative, will add 16 processing sites and take control of 10 existing “turnkey” facilities where ICE already operates, with the largest facility having a capacity of 10,000 people.“This new model will allow ICE to create an efficient detention network by reducing the total number of contracted detention facilities in use while increasing total bed capacity, enhancing custody management, and streamlining removal operations,” according to the document.The Trump administration’s expansion plans were first reported by The Washington Post earlier.Since Trump returned to the office last year, the administration has started purchasing warehouses across the United States with plans to convert them into detention facilities as part of its large immigration crackdown. The move has drawn concerns from local communities and state leaders from Arizona to Texas and Maryland.According to the documents, ICE said that the new centres will expand the detention capacity by 92,600 and are expected to be implemented by November. The program will be funded through congressional allocations under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.“These facilities will ensure the safe and humane civil detention of aliens in ICE custody, while helping ICE effectuate mass deportations,” the document reads.This comes after the Trump administration faced massive backlash in Minnesota after it deployed about 3,000 immigration agents, including Customs and Border Protection tactical officers and Border Patrol agents, as part of its “Operation Metro Surge”. Following outrage from residents after the killing of two US citizens by federal officers, the Trump administration has said that it will withdraw its federal force.

The Trump administration is planning a sweeping $38 billion expansion of immigration detention facilities nationwide, aiming to boost capacity and accelerate deportations under an intensified ICE crackdown.

US President Donald Trump’s administration is set to spend $38 billion on a plan to acquire warehouses across the country and turn them into immigration detention centres with a capacity for tens of thousands of individuals. The expansion is expected to streamline and speed up the deportation of illegal aliens amid the large-scale US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. According to published documents sent to the governor of New Hampshire by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has disclosed that it will spend an estimated $158 million retrofitting a new detention facility in Merrimack, New Hampshire, and another $146m to operate the facility in the first three years. The plan, Detention Reengineering Initiative, will add 16 processing sites and take control of 10 existing “turnkey” facilities where ICE already operates, with the largest facility having a capacity of 10,000 people. “This new model will allow ICE to create an efficient detention network by reducing the total number of contracted detention facilities in use while increasing total bed capacity, enhancing custody management, and streamlining removal operations,” according to the document. The Trump administration’s expansion plans were first reported by The Washington Post earlier. Since Trump returned to the office last year, the administration has started purchasing warehouses across the United States with plans to convert them into detention facilities as part of its large immigration crackdown. The move has drawn concerns from local communities and state leaders from Arizona to Texas and Maryland. According to the documents, ICE said that the new centres will expand the detention capacity by 92,600 and are expected to be implemented by November. The program will be funded through congressional allocations under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. “These facilities will ensure the safe and humane civil detention of aliens in ICE custody, while helping ICE effectuate mass deportations,” the document reads. This comes after the Trump administration faced massive backlash in Minnesota after it deployed about 3,000 immigration agents, including Customs and Border Protection tactical officers and Border Patrol agents, as part of its “Operation Metro Surge”. Following outrage from residents after the killing of two US citizens by federal officers, the Trump administration has said that it will withdraw its federal force.

The Trump administration is planning a sweeping $38 billion expansion of immigration detention facilities nationwide, aiming to boost capacity and accelerate deportations under an intensified ICE crackdown.

ICE expanding its immigration crackdown? Trump admin’s $38 billion plan to convert warehouses into detention centres – Details inside

A federal judge in Minnesota has ordered the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to personally appear in court after the agency failed to comply with a detention order. District Judge Patrick Schiltz directed acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to attend a hearing on Friday (January 30), citing repeated failures by the agency to follow court-mandated timelines for immigration bond hearings.&nbsp;The order stems from a case involving an immigrant detainee who was granted relief on January 14. Under the court’s ruling, the detainee was entitled to a bond hearing within seven days or immediate release. Court filings indicate that as of 23 January, the hearing had not taken place and the individual remained in custody. Judge Schiltz described the situation as part of a broader pattern of noncompliance, noting that ICE has disregarded dozens of court orders in recent weeks. Despite assurances from government attorneys that the agency understood its legal obligations, violations continued, the judge said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-lady-melania-trump-makes-rare-political-statement-as-anti-ice-unrest-grips-minnesota-1769525629288">First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota</a>&nbsp;"The Court’s patience is at an end. Accordingly, the Court will order Todd Lyons, the Acting Director of ICE, to appear personally before the Court and show cause why he should not be held in contempt of Court," Schiltz wrote in his order.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-budget-2026-targets-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges-1769520043238/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-budget-2026-targets-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges-1769520043238/embed</a> Schiltz also criticised ICE for deploying large numbers of agents in Minnesota without allocating resources to handle the surge of legal challenges that followed. Calling the move to summon the agency’s top official “extraordinary,” the judge said prior efforts to secure compliance had failed. Lyons has been ordered to explain why he should not be held in contempt of court.<h2>Several held after protest outside hotel where immigration chief reportedly staying</h2>Police say multiple people were taken into custody after protests erupted outside a Maple Grove hotel where demonstrators believed US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino was staying overnight. The demonstration happened amid heightened tensions after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis by federal agents, and as immigration leadership shifts on the ground. Footage from the protest, held on Monday night at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott northwest of Minneapolis, showed crowds beating drums and holding up signs reading “abolish ICE” as they voiced their anger. Authorities from the Maple Grove Police Department said officers first tried to manage the crowd peacefully, but the situation intensified when objects were thrown, and property was damaged.

'The court's patience is at an end': US judge orders acting ICE director to appear in court

A federal judge in Minnesota has ordered the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to personally appear in court after the agency failed to comply with a detention order. District Judge Patrick Schiltz directed acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to attend a hearing on Friday (January 30), citing repeated failures by the agency to follow court-mandated timelines for immigration bond hearings. The order stems from a case involving an immigrant detainee who was granted relief on January 14. Under the court’s ruling, the detainee was entitled to a bond hearing within seven days or immediate release. Court filings indicate that as of 23 January, the hearing had not taken place and the individual remained in custody. Judge Schiltz described the situation as part of a broader pattern of noncompliance, noting that ICE has disregarded dozens of court orders in recent weeks. Despite assurances from government attorneys that the agency understood its legal obligations, violations continued, the judge said. Also Read: First Lady Melania Trump makes rare political statement as anti-ICE unrest grips Minnesota "The Court’s patience is at an end. Accordingly, the Court will order Todd Lyons, the Acting Director of ICE, to appear personally before the Court and show cause why he should not be held in contempt of Court," Schiltz wrote in his order. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-budget-2026-targets-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges-1769520043238/embed Schiltz also criticised ICE for deploying large numbers of agents in Minnesota without allocating resources to handle the surge of legal challenges that followed. Calling the move to summon the agency’s top official “extraordinary,” the judge said prior efforts to secure compliance had failed. Lyons has been ordered to explain why he should not be held in contempt of court. Several held after protest outside hotel where immigration chief reportedly staying Police say multiple people were taken into custody after protests erupted outside a Maple Grove hotel where demonstrators believed US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino was staying overnight. The demonstration happened amid heightened tensions after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis by federal agents, and as immigration leadership shifts on the ground. Footage from the protest, held on Monday night at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott northwest of Minneapolis, showed crowds beating drums and holding up signs reading “abolish ICE” as they voiced their anger. Authorities from the Maple Grove Police Department said officers first tried to manage the crowd peacefully, but the situation intensified when objects were thrown, and property was damaged.

A Minnesota judge has ordered acting ICE director Todd Lyons to court after the agency failed to hold a required bond hearing for a detainee

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 27) announced that he has authorised the deployment of troops in the northwestern US city of Portland, Oregon and at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country.“At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He added, “I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary,” without specifying what he meant by “full force”.Trump had earlier mobilised the National Guard to Los Angeles and Washington to combat illegal immigration. He had also warned of deploying troops to Chicago. Deployment of troops is also expected in Memphis, Tennessee.The US president’s announcement comes a day after a deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Texas. In the incident, one detainee was killed while two others were injured. The federal officials have said that the gunman, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, targeted ICE agents from a nearby rooftop.The shooting incident happened weeks after the assassination of Trump ally Charlie Kirk, following which the US president declared the left-wing Antifa movement a “domestic terrorist group.” Trump has blamed the “radical left” for the political violence in the country.Portland, the largest city in Oregon, has witnessed several months of protest at ICE facilities over the Trump administration’s crackdown against “illegal aliens.” The city has also been the site of major clashes during Trump’s first term after the police killing of George Floyd in May 2020, which sparked massive racial justice protests.&nbsp;

The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 27) announced that he has authorised the deployment of troops in the northwestern US city of Portland, Oregon and at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country. “At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He added, “I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary,” without specifying what he meant by “full force”. Trump had earlier mobilised the National Guard to Los Angeles and Washington to combat illegal immigration. He had also warned of deploying troops to Chicago. Deployment of troops is also expected in Memphis, Tennessee. The US president’s announcement comes a day after a deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Texas. In the incident, one detainee was killed while two others were injured. The federal officials have said that the gunman, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, targeted ICE agents from a nearby rooftop. The shooting incident happened weeks after the assassination of Trump ally Charlie Kirk, following which the US president declared the left-wing Antifa movement a “domestic terrorist group.” Trump has blamed the “radical left” for the political violence in the country. Portland, the largest city in Oregon, has witnessed several months of protest at ICE facilities over the Trump administration’s crackdown against “illegal aliens.” The city has also been the site of major clashes during Trump’s first term after the police killing of George Floyd in May 2020, which sparked massive racial justice protests.

The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country.

‘To protect war ravaged Portland’: Trump orders deployment of troops to another US city, says Kristi Noem requested it

An Indian-origin grandmother, 73, who has been living in the United States for 33 years was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during what her family thought was a routine check-in and has become the centre of protests in California. Harjit Kaur, a resident of Hercules in California’s East Bay, was taken into custody by ICE on September 8 in San Francisco and transferred to the Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield the following day. Her family is distraught and in disbelief.&nbsp;Kaur, who immigrated from India in 1992 as a single mother with two sons, has no criminal record. Her claim for asylum was denied in 2012, after which she remained under ICE supervision. Her family says she was repeatedly told that she could stay in the US until travel documents were arranged by Indian authorities. She had been complying with immigration check-ins every six months for the past 13 years and has been paying taxes.&nbsp;<h2>Protesters wave signs saying ‘Hands Off Our Grandma’ and ‘Bring Grandma Home’</h2>&nbsp;Her sudden detention has triggered anger and calls for her release. Around 200 people gathered in El Sobrante on Friday, waving signs that read “Hands Off Our Grandma”, “Bring Grandma Home” and “She’s no criminal” while passing drivers honked in solidarity. The protest was organised by her family, the Sikh Center, and local advocacy group Indivisible West Contra Costa.“She’s not a criminal. And she’s not only my grandma. She is everyone’s grandma,” said her granddaughter, Sukhdeep Kaur, speaking to Richmondside newspaper. “Everyone looks up to her as a mother figure. She is independent, selfless, and hard-working,” Kaur added.&nbsp;A representative from Congressman John Garamendi’s office also attended the protest, along with Hercules City Council member Dilli Bhattarai.“She is not doing any harm to the community. She is an abiding constituent just like us,” Bhattarai said.&nbsp;<h2>‘ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document’</h2>&nbsp;Kaur worked for over 20 years as a seamstress at a family-owned store in Berkeley. Her daughter-in-law, Manjit Kaur, said Harjit always cooperated with immigration authorities and made multiple efforts to secure travel documents from the Indian Consulate.“ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document. If ICE can’t get it in 13 years, how are we supposed to get it,” Manjit asked.&nbsp;The family is concerned about Kaur’s health as she suffers from thyroid issues, chronic knee pain, migraines, and anxiety and claims she is not receiving proper access to medication in detention.“When we did hear from her, she was crying and begging us for help,” the family said.&nbsp;WATCH: Tesla CEO Attacks PM Kier Starmer | Musk: There Needs to Be a Change in Government<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-ceo-attacks-pm-kier-starmer-musk-there-needs-to-be-a-change-in-government-1757867719620/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-ceo-attacks-pm-kier-starmer-musk-there-needs-to-be-a-change-in-government-1757867719620/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Misplaced priorities,’ says Congressman John Garamendi</h2>&nbsp;Congressman Garamendi has criticised the detention as “misplaced priorities” and urged ICE to focus on high-risk individuals rather than elderly residents with long-standing ties to the community.&nbsp;California Assembly member Alex Lee also voiced support for Kaur, saying she should not be treated this way.The family has launched a campaign website, <a href="https://bringharjithome.com/">bringharjithome.com</a>, urging people to contact elected officials and demand her release.

As per reports, 73-year-old Harjit Kaur repeatedly sought travel documents from the Indian Consulate but was denied, and ICE itself assured her for years that she could remain under supervision until those papers were issued.

An Indian-origin grandmother, 73, who has been living in the United States for 33 years was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during what her family thought was a routine check-in and has become the centre of protests in California. Harjit Kaur, a resident of Hercules in California’s East Bay, was taken into custody by ICE on September 8 in San Francisco and transferred to the Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield the following day. Her family is distraught and in disbelief. Kaur, who immigrated from India in 1992 as a single mother with two sons, has no criminal record. Her claim for asylum was denied in 2012, after which she remained under ICE supervision. Her family says she was repeatedly told that she could stay in the US until travel documents were arranged by Indian authorities. She had been complying with immigration check-ins every six months for the past 13 years and has been paying taxes. Protesters wave signs saying ‘Hands Off Our Grandma’ and ‘Bring Grandma Home’ Her sudden detention has triggered anger and calls for her release. Around 200 people gathered in El Sobrante on Friday, waving signs that read “Hands Off Our Grandma”, “Bring Grandma Home” and “She’s no criminal” while passing drivers honked in solidarity. The protest was organised by her family, the Sikh Center, and local advocacy group Indivisible West Contra Costa. “She’s not a criminal. And she’s not only my grandma. She is everyone’s grandma,” said her granddaughter, Sukhdeep Kaur, speaking to Richmondside newspaper. “Everyone looks up to her as a mother figure. She is independent, selfless, and hard-working,” Kaur added. A representative from Congressman John Garamendi’s office also attended the protest, along with Hercules City Council member Dilli Bhattarai. “She is not doing any harm to the community. She is an abiding constituent just like us,” Bhattarai said. ‘ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document’ Kaur worked for over 20 years as a seamstress at a family-owned store in Berkeley. Her daughter-in-law, Manjit Kaur, said Harjit always cooperated with immigration authorities and made multiple efforts to secure travel documents from the Indian Consulate. “ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document. If ICE can’t get it in 13 years, how are we supposed to get it,” Manjit asked. The family is concerned about Kaur’s health as she suffers from thyroid issues, chronic knee pain, migraines, and anxiety and claims she is not receiving proper access to medication in detention. “When we did hear from her, she was crying and begging us for help,” the family said. WATCH: Tesla CEO Attacks PM Kier Starmer | Musk: There Needs to Be a Change in Government https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-ceo-attacks-pm-kier-starmer-musk-there-needs-to-be-a-change-in-government-1757867719620/embed ‘Misplaced priorities,’ says Congressman John Garamendi Congressman Garamendi has criticised the detention as “misplaced priorities” and urged ICE to focus on high-risk individuals rather than elderly residents with long-standing ties to the community. California Assembly member Alex Lee also voiced support for Kaur, saying she should not be treated this way. The family has launched a campaign website, bringharjithome.com, urging people to contact elected officials and demand her release.

As per reports, 73-year-old Harjit Kaur repeatedly sought travel documents from the Indian Consulate but was denied, and ICE itself assured her for years that she could remain under supervision until those papers were issued.

‘Bring Grandma Home’: Indian-origin woman, 73, living in US since 33 years, held in ICE raid; kin, community protest

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man who became a flashpoint of US President Donald Trump’s crackdown against immigration, has been detained again by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and faces another deportation threat. The Salvadoran man was wrongly deported by the US authorities earlier this year, drawing outrage across the nation. Garcia was detained at his check-in appointment in Baltimore, days after he was freed from federal custody in Tennessee.Abrego’s lawyers have asked the courts to dismiss his case on the grounds that the administration’s move is a vindictive attempt to punish him for challenging his initial deportation to El Salvador. However, his case saw a new turn when the immigration officials on Friday revealed that he would be deported to Uganda, a country he has no known connection to, after he declined an offer to be deported to Costa Rica in exchange for pleading guilty to human smuggling charges.His case has sparked outrage among legal experts and human rights advocates, who say his deportation is being rushed without a court hearing, violating US laws.<h2>Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia?</h2>Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 30-year-old resident of the eastern state of Maryland, is one of over 200 migrants who were deported to a prison in El Salvador earlier this year, in March, as part of Trump’s crackdown against illegal migrants. Abrego, who grew up in El Salvador, fled the country at the age of 16 after a local gang extorted and terrorised his family, according to court records. He travelled to Maryland, where his brother lives as a US citizen. However, he was not authorised to stay.He later started working in construction and met Jennifer Vasquez Sura, whom he married later. The couple has two children.<h2>Why was he deported to El Salvador?</h2>In March 2019, Abrego approached a Home Depot, seeking work as a labourer, but was detained by the police. According to the records, a criminal informant told police that he was a member of MS-13, an international criminal gang. While Abrego was not charged, he was handed over to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.Abrego and his legal team have denied any connection with the gang. In addition, he does not have any criminal record in either the US or El Salvador. Although his asylum was denied by a US immigration judge, he was granted protection from being deported to El Salvador over fears of gang prosecution. He was released and placed under federal supervision after receiving a work permit, and was supposed to check in every year with ICE.In March this year, the Trump administration deported Abrego to a prison in El Salvador after designating MS-13 as a foreign terrorist organisation. At the prison, Abrego claimed that he was beaten and psychologically tortured, allegations which were denied by the country’s president, Nayib Bukele.<h2>Will he be deported to Uganda?</h2>Following a Supreme Court order demanding that the Trump administration “facilitate” his return, Abrego was returned in June. Upon his return, he was arrested and charged with smuggling migrants, following which he remained in a Tennessee jail.After his release on Friday (Aug 22), the government told Abrego that he may be deported to Uganda. According to his attorneys, he had until Monday to accept a plea offer involving pleading guilty to human smuggling charges in exchange for being deported to Costa Rica, where he would be treated as a refugee. He reportedly declined the offer.The Independent reported that unless Abrego changes his plea in the Tennessee federal case, it is likely that he could be deported to Uganda as soon as Wednesday.US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said on Monday (Aug 25) that ICE law enforcement is processing his deportation. “President Trump is not going to allow this illegal alien, who is an MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, serial domestic abuser, and child predator, to terrorise American citizens any longer,” she said.Watch | Kilmar Abrego Garcia freed from jail: What’s next after his shocking release?https://www.wionews.com/videos/kilmar-abrego-garcia-freed-from-jail-what-s-next-after-his-shocking-release-1755948522820/embed

Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement once again, days after he was released from federal custody. After being deported to the mega-prison in El Salvador, he now faces threats of being deported to Uganda.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man who became a flashpoint of US President Donald Trump’s crackdown against immigration, has been detained again by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and faces another deportation threat. The Salvadoran man was wrongly deported by the US authorities earlier this year, drawing outrage across the nation. Garcia was detained at his check-in appointment in Baltimore, days after he was freed from federal custody in Tennessee. Abrego’s lawyers have asked the courts to dismiss his case on the grounds that the administration’s move is a vindictive attempt to punish him for challenging his initial deportation to El Salvador. However, his case saw a new turn when the immigration officials on Friday revealed that he would be deported to Uganda, a country he has no known connection to, after he declined an offer to be deported to Costa Rica in exchange for pleading guilty to human smuggling charges. His case has sparked outrage among legal experts and human rights advocates, who say his deportation is being rushed without a court hearing, violating US laws. Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia? Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 30-year-old resident of the eastern state of Maryland, is one of over 200 migrants who were deported to a prison in El Salvador earlier this year, in March, as part of Trump’s crackdown against illegal migrants. Abrego, who grew up in El Salvador, fled the country at the age of 16 after a local gang extorted and terrorised his family, according to court records. He travelled to Maryland, where his brother lives as a US citizen. However, he was not authorised to stay. He later started working in construction and met Jennifer Vasquez Sura, whom he married later. The couple has two children. Why was he deported to El Salvador? In March 2019, Abrego approached a Home Depot, seeking work as a labourer, but was detained by the police. According to the records, a criminal informant told police that he was a member of MS-13, an international criminal gang. While Abrego was not charged, he was handed over to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Abrego and his legal team have denied any connection with the gang. In addition, he does not have any criminal record in either the US or El Salvador. Although his asylum was denied by a US immigration judge, he was granted protection from being deported to El Salvador over fears of gang prosecution. He was released and placed under federal supervision after receiving a work permit, and was supposed to check in every year with ICE. In March this year, the Trump administration deported Abrego to a prison in El Salvador after designating MS-13 as a foreign terrorist organisation. At the prison, Abrego claimed that he was beaten and psychologically tortured, allegations which were denied by the country’s president, Nayib Bukele. Will he be deported to Uganda? Following a Supreme Court order demanding that the Trump administration “facilitate” his return, Abrego was returned in June. Upon his return, he was arrested and charged with smuggling migrants, following which he remained in a Tennessee jail. After his release on Friday (Aug 22), the government told Abrego that he may be deported to Uganda. According to his attorneys, he had until Monday to accept a plea offer involving pleading guilty to human smuggling charges in exchange for being deported to Costa Rica, where he would be treated as a refugee. He reportedly declined the offer. The Independent reported that unless Abrego changes his plea in the Tennessee federal case, it is likely that he could be deported to Uganda as soon as Wednesday. US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said on Monday (Aug 25) that ICE law enforcement is processing his deportation. “President Trump is not going to allow this illegal alien, who is an MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, serial domestic abuser, and child predator, to terrorise American citizens any longer,” she said. Watch | Kilmar Abrego Garcia freed from jail: What’s next after his shocking release? https://www.wionews.com/videos/kilmar-abrego-garcia-freed-from-jail-what-s-next-after-his-shocking-release-1755948522820/embed

Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement once again, days after he was released from federal custody. After being deported to the mega-prison in El Salvador, he now faces threats of being deported to Uganda.

Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia? Man at the centre of Trump’s immigration crackdown faces deportation to Uganda

On Thursday (August 14), several envelopes of suspicious white powder were found on the ninth floor of a building at 26 Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan - the office of the US &nbsp;Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).&nbsp;Kaz Daughtry, NYC Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, took to X and said, “Our teams and federal partners are investigating an incident at 26 Federal Plaza. I have personally briefed @nycmayor Adams and The Deputy Mayor for Administration Camille Joseph Varlack in regard to the circumstances.”<h2>What's the matter</h2>NYC Mayor Eric Adams revealed, “New Yorkers, I have been preliminarily briefed on the matter unfolding at 26 Federal Plaza.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed</a>&nbsp;The mayor said envelopes containing white powder have been discovered at the ICE office, and no injuries were reported.&nbsp;“The investigation is ongoing. Expect increased presence and temporary closures. Please avoid the area and follow official channels for verified updates,” Daughtry added.<h2>What is at 26 Federal Plaza?</h2>26 Federal Plaza is the place having offices of the Department of Homeland Security, among other agencies. It also houses ICE detention facilities.&nbsp;The North Carolina singer, DaBaby, was born as Jonathan Lyndale Kirk. He was heavily criticised in 2021 for his homophobic remarks. &nbsp;

26 Federal Plaza is the place having offices of the Department of Homeland Security, among other agencies. It also houses ICE detention facilities.



On Thursday (August 14), several envelopes of suspicious white powder were found on the ninth floor of a building at 26 Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan - the office of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Kaz Daughtry, NYC Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, took to X and said, “Our teams and federal partners are investigating an incident at 26 Federal Plaza. I have personally briefed @nycmayor Adams and The Deputy Mayor for Administration Camille Joseph Varlack in regard to the circumstances.” What's the matter NYC Mayor Eric Adams revealed, “New Yorkers, I have been preliminarily briefed on the matter unfolding at 26 Federal Plaza.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed The mayor said envelopes containing white powder have been discovered at the ICE office, and no injuries were reported. “The investigation is ongoing. Expect increased presence and temporary closures. Please avoid the area and follow official channels for verified updates,” Daughtry added. What is at 26 Federal Plaza? 26 Federal Plaza is the place having offices of the Department of Homeland Security, among other agencies. It also houses ICE detention facilities. The North Carolina singer, DaBaby, was born as Jonathan Lyndale Kirk. He was heavily criticised in 2021 for his homophobic remarks.

26 Federal Plaza is the place having offices of the Department of Homeland Security, among other agencies. It also houses ICE detention facilities.&nbsp;

Suspicious envelopes with white powder found at ICE office - Here's what happened

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has removed age restrictions for new Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recruits, opening the door for applicants as young as 18, and with no upper limit, to join the agency.Previously, applicants had to be at least 21 and no older than 37 or 40, depending on the role. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told Fox &amp; Friends the move would allow more “patriots” to help protect American families.“We no longer have a cap on how old you can be… Sign up for ICE and join us. We’ll get you trained and ready to go out on the streets and help protect families,” Noem said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-war-must-end-ukraine-s-zelensky-calls-for-lasting-peace-after-call-with-trump-1754505061359">'War must end': Ukraine’s Zelensky calls for ‘lasting peace’ after call with Trump</a><h2>White House calls for ‘patriots’ to apply</h2>Announcing the change on X, Noem wrote, “We are ENDING the age cap for ICE law enforcement. Qualified candidates can now apply with no age limit.” White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller added, “Calling all patriots. Submit your application TODAY.”Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons urged Americans to step forward, “Your country is calling on you to serve at ICE and defend the Homeland… we now have funding to recruit and hire Americans who want to patriotically serve their country and protect American communities.”<h2>Big recruitment drive with cash incentives</h2>The change follows Congress approving a major spending bill this summer, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” by the administration, which provides funds to hire 10,000 more ICE staff. ICE has launched a nationwide recruitment campaign for deportation officers, investigators and lawyers. Incentives include signing bonuses of up to $50,000, student loan forgiveness and extensive overtime pay. All recruits will still need to pass medical and drug screenings, along with a physical fitness test.<h2>Focus on deportations and border enforcement</h2>ICE is central to President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans, which include removing those in the US illegally, especially individuals with criminal convictions or charges. The DHS says assaults on agents have surged by 830% amid riots and protests, including recent incidents in the Los Angeles area, a factor officials say underscores the need for more personnel.

The US DHS removed age limits for new ICE recruits, allowing applicants as young as 18 with no upper age cap, aiming to expand recruitment and bolster protection of American families.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has removed age restrictions for new Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recruits, opening the door for applicants as young as 18, and with no upper limit, to join the agency. Previously, applicants had to be at least 21 and no older than 37 or 40, depending on the role. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told Fox & Friends the move would allow more “patriots” to help protect American families. “We no longer have a cap on how old you can be… Sign up for ICE and join us. We’ll get you trained and ready to go out on the streets and help protect families,” Noem said. Also read: 'War must end': Ukraine’s Zelensky calls for ‘lasting peace’ after call with Trump White House calls for ‘patriots’ to apply Announcing the change on X, Noem wrote, “We are ENDING the age cap for ICE law enforcement. Qualified candidates can now apply with no age limit.” White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller added, “Calling all patriots. Submit your application TODAY.” Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons urged Americans to step forward, “Your country is calling on you to serve at ICE and defend the Homeland… we now have funding to recruit and hire Americans who want to patriotically serve their country and protect American communities.” Big recruitment drive with cash incentives The change follows Congress approving a major spending bill this summer, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” by the administration, which provides funds to hire 10,000 more ICE staff. ICE has launched a nationwide recruitment campaign for deportation officers, investigators and lawyers. Incentives include signing bonuses of up to $50,000, student loan forgiveness and extensive overtime pay. All recruits will still need to pass medical and drug screenings, along with a physical fitness test. Focus on deportations and border enforcement ICE is central to President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans, which include removing those in the US illegally, especially individuals with criminal convictions or charges. The DHS says assaults on agents have surged by 830% amid riots and protests, including recent incidents in the Los Angeles area, a factor officials say underscores the need for more personnel.

The US DHS removed age limits for new ICE recruits, allowing applicants as young as 18 with no upper age cap, aiming to expand recruitment and bolster protection of American families.

'$50,000 bonuses, loan forgiveness': US drops age cap for ICE hires in biggest recruitment drive in history - Teens to join Trump's deportation push?

In a bid to ramp up hiring, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, is offering signing bonuses of up to $50,000 (£37,700) and student loan help to “brave and heroic” Americans keen to help the Trump administration’s deportation drive. The agency is aiming to recruit deportation officers, along with attorneys, criminal investigators, student visa adjudicators, and other roles. ICE plans to add 10,000 personnel, doubling the agency’s headcount as it ramps up deportations across the country.&nbsp;ICE has launched a recruitment campaign as the government plans a major expansion of immigration enforcement after a recent infusion of money from Congress and is promising up to $50,000 in signing bonuses.&nbsp;The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement campaign recalls recruiting posters from World War II with images of Uncle Sam and the words “AMERICA NEEDS YOU.” There also are photos of Trump and top homeland security officials with the words “DEFEND THE HOMELAND” across the images.Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a release, “Your country is calling you to serve at ICE. This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland.”&nbsp;The funding for the recruitment drive comes from approximately $165 billion allocated for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill.In addition to the signing bonus and student loan repayment and forgiveness of up to $60,000, ICE is promising hefty overtime pay for deportation officers and “enhanced retirement benefits”.&nbsp;Deportation officers are tasked with helping apprehend and process undocumented migrants for removal from the US and get salaries between $49,739 and $89,528 per year, depending on experience and education.ICE currently has 20,000 officers and support personnel at 400 offices across the country.&nbsp;President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful’ tax and spending bill includes more than $76 billion allocated to ICE—almost 10 times of what it had been receiving previously.&nbsp;Trump, Noem and other officials have vowed to ramp deportations to one million per year.Approximately 150,000 people have been deported in the first six months of the Trump administration, as per data accessed by CBS.At this pace, ICE will be able to carry out around 300,000 deportations in Trump’s first year in office, well below the goal.&nbsp;ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan is actively targeting local departments with existing 287 (g) contracts with the federal government that allow local officers to cooperate with immigration enforcement efforts.In an email, Sheahan asks local law enforcement officers to consider joining ICE “during a critical time for our nation.”“This is more than a job; it’s a continuation of your service to our country and an opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals on the front lines of national security,” reads the email sent from an ICE email address with the name “Join the Mission,” and it also promises $10,000 for a new hire reaching their fifth anniversary. A minimum of five years is required to receive the incentives, the email said.

ICE is offering up to $50K signing bonuses as well as loan forgiveness in an effort to hire 10,000 more officers. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem exhorted applicants, saying that their skills, experience, and courage have never been more essential, and they will help defend the homeland.

In a bid to ramp up hiring, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, is offering signing bonuses of up to $50,000 (£37,700) and student loan help to “brave and heroic” Americans keen to help the Trump administration’s deportation drive. The agency is aiming to recruit deportation officers, along with attorneys, criminal investigators, student visa adjudicators, and other roles. ICE plans to add 10,000 personnel, doubling the agency’s headcount as it ramps up deportations across the country. ICE has launched a recruitment campaign as the government plans a major expansion of immigration enforcement after a recent infusion of money from Congress and is promising up to $50,000 in signing bonuses. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement campaign recalls recruiting posters from World War II with images of Uncle Sam and the words “AMERICA NEEDS YOU.” There also are photos of Trump and top homeland security officials with the words “DEFEND THE HOMELAND” across the images. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said in a release, “Your country is calling you to serve at ICE. This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland.” The funding for the recruitment drive comes from approximately $165 billion allocated for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill. In addition to the signing bonus and student loan repayment and forgiveness of up to $60,000, ICE is promising hefty overtime pay for deportation officers and “enhanced retirement benefits”. Deportation officers are tasked with helping apprehend and process undocumented migrants for removal from the US and get salaries between $49,739 and $89,528 per year, depending on experience and education. ICE currently has 20,000 officers and support personnel at 400 offices across the country. President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful’ tax and spending bill includes more than $76 billion allocated to ICE—almost 10 times of what it had been receiving previously. Trump, Noem and other officials have vowed to ramp deportations to one million per year. Approximately 150,000 people have been deported in the first six months of the Trump administration, as per data accessed by CBS. At this pace, ICE will be able to carry out around 300,000 deportations in Trump’s first year in office, well below the goal. ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan is actively targeting local departments with existing 287 (g) contracts with the federal government that allow local officers to cooperate with immigration enforcement efforts. In an email, Sheahan asks local law enforcement officers to consider joining ICE “during a critical time for our nation.” “This is more than a job; it’s a continuation of your service to our country and an opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals on the front lines of national security,” reads the email sent from an ICE email address with the name “Join the Mission,” and it also promises $10,000 for a new hire reaching their fifth anniversary. A minimum of five years is required to receive the incentives, the email said.

ICE is offering up to $50K signing bonuses as well as loan forgiveness in an effort to hire 10,000 more officers. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem exhorted applicants, saying that their skills, experience, and courage have never been more essential, and they will help defend the homeland.

US offers $50K signing bonus as incentive to ICE deportation officer new hires

The Trump administration has ordered immigration officers to detain undocumented immigrants without offering them the chance to apply for bond during deportation proceedings, the Washington Post reported. In a memo reviewed by the Post on 8 July, Todd M. Lyons, the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that immigrants who entered the country illegally must now be detained “for the duration of their removal proceedings”, a process that can take months or even years. This decision could affect millions of people who entered the US illegally in recent decades, including during President Biden’s term.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-wildly-out-of-context-white-house-says-trump-was-not-encouraging-further-killing-after-reports-claim-he-wanted-zelensky-to-strike-moscow-1752595112142">'Wildly out of context': White House says Trump 'was not encouraging further killing' after reports claim he wanted Zelensky to ‘strike Moscow’</a><h2>Immigration judges removed from decision-making process</h2>Previously, undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges. However, Lyons stated in the memo that the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice had reviewed the legal framework and concluded that such individuals “may not be released from ICE custody.”In rare cases, release on parole may still be granted, but that decision will lie with immigration officers, not judges. The policy relies on a section of immigration law that mandates detention after arrest, a rule that has historically applied only to recent border crossers, not long-term residents.<h2>Congress allocates $45 billion for expanded detention</h2>This major shift in immigration enforcement comes just after Congress approved a $45 billion budget to increase the U.S.’s detention capacity over the next four years. With the new funds, ICE is expected to double the number of immigrants it can detain daily, up to 100,000 people.Already, reports have emerged of immigrants being denied bond hearings in over a dozen courts across states such as New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Oregon, Ohio and Georgia, according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association.Though ICE claims in its 2024 annual report that most of the 7.6 million immigrants on its docket are released while their cases are processed, the scale of the new policy could change that drastically.<h2>Lawyers say long-term residents now targeted</h2>Under current law, immigrants convicted of serious crimes like murder are already held without bond. Recently, theft-related crimes were added to that list after the killing of Laken Riley, a nursing student in Georgia, by a Venezuelan man previously arrested for shoplifting. Now, immigration lawyers say the Trump administration is expanding detention rules originally meant for recent arrivals to include long-time US residents, many of whom have American children and legal arguments against deportation.Detaining them in remote centres, such as swamps in Florida or desert areas in Arizona, could limit their access to family, lawyers and the resources needed to fight their cases. Many will be unable to work or build legal defences.Currently, ICE is detaining around 56,000 immigrants each day and has reopened family detention centres that were previously closed under the Biden administration due to safety concerns. Officers are reportedly working overtime to meet Trump’s target of deporting one million people in his first year back in office.

Earlier,  undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges, but as per the memo, now such individuals will not be released from the ICE custody.

The Trump administration has ordered immigration officers to detain undocumented immigrants without offering them the chance to apply for bond during deportation proceedings, the Washington Post reported. In a memo reviewed by the Post on 8 July, Todd M. Lyons, the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that immigrants who entered the country illegally must now be detained “for the duration of their removal proceedings”, a process that can take months or even years. This decision could affect millions of people who entered the US illegally in recent decades, including during President Biden’s term. Also read: 'Wildly out of context': White House says Trump 'was not encouraging further killing' after reports claim he wanted Zelensky to ‘strike Moscow’ Immigration judges removed from decision-making process Previously, undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges. However, Lyons stated in the memo that the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice had reviewed the legal framework and concluded that such individuals “may not be released from ICE custody.” In rare cases, release on parole may still be granted, but that decision will lie with immigration officers, not judges. The policy relies on a section of immigration law that mandates detention after arrest, a rule that has historically applied only to recent border crossers, not long-term residents. Congress allocates $45 billion for expanded detention This major shift in immigration enforcement comes just after Congress approved a $45 billion budget to increase the U.S.’s detention capacity over the next four years. With the new funds, ICE is expected to double the number of immigrants it can detain daily, up to 100,000 people. Already, reports have emerged of immigrants being denied bond hearings in over a dozen courts across states such as New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Oregon, Ohio and Georgia, according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Though ICE claims in its 2024 annual report that most of the 7.6 million immigrants on its docket are released while their cases are processed, the scale of the new policy could change that drastically. Lawyers say long-term residents now targeted Under current law, immigrants convicted of serious crimes like murder are already held without bond. Recently, theft-related crimes were added to that list after the killing of Laken Riley, a nursing student in Georgia, by a Venezuelan man previously arrested for shoplifting. Now, immigration lawyers say the Trump administration is expanding detention rules originally meant for recent arrivals to include long-time US residents, many of whom have American children and legal arguments against deportation. Detaining them in remote centres, such as swamps in Florida or desert areas in Arizona, could limit their access to family, lawyers and the resources needed to fight their cases. Many will be unable to work or build legal defences. Currently, ICE is detaining around 56,000 immigrants each day and has reopened family detention centres that were previously closed under the Biden administration due to safety concerns. Officers are reportedly working overtime to meet Trump’s target of deporting one million people in his first year back in office.

Earlier, undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges, but as per the memo, now such individuals will not be released from ICE custody.

Millions could be jailed for years as new Trump rule targets longtime undocumented residents - What does that mean?

Paint me freedom: Artists write messages in sky over ICE detention centers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-immigration-raids-sweep-up-hundreds-of-undocumented-migrants-241420">US immigration authorities</a> arrested nearly 700 people at seven agricultural processing plants across Mississippi on Wednesday in what federal officials said could be the largest worksite enforcement operation in a single state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-man-dead-after-attacking-united-states-immigration-jail-235787">Immigration and Customs Enforcement</a> (ICE) said in a statement they detained about 680 people who were working illegally at the plants. They said they also seized business records as part of a federal criminal investigation.

Some of those detained will be released for "humanitarian reasons" and required to appear in the US immigration court, the US Attorney's Office of the Southern District of Mississippi, which partnered with ICE, said in a statement. Others will be transported to an ICE facility in Jena, Louisiana, it said.

A video released by ICE showed buses arriving at a Canton, Mississippi, processing facility where agents searched workers and checked their identification documents. Some workers had their hands restrained with nylon ties, the video showed.

Meanwhile, Mexico said&nbsp;that 122 of its citizens were among the&nbsp;people arrested in the raids.

Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard said the government would provide consular assistance and "guarantee the adequate legal defence of all Mexican nationals" detained.

Past large operations to enforce immigration laws at workplaces have included the arrest in 2008 of more than 300 workers at a kosher meatpacking plant in Postville, Iowa.

Watch: The immigration debate: seesaws placed at US-Mexico border

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-immigration-debate-seesaws-placed-at-us-mexico-border-240019/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During the administration of former President Barack Obama, ICE prioritised the arrests of recent border crossers, people who had previously been ordered deported and those seen as a threat to public safety.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-to-visit-el-paso-tomorrow-following-mass-shooting-mayor-241082">President Donald Trump</a> has made cracking down on illegal immigration a centrepiece of his presidency, however, and ICE has stepped up its activities considerably since he took office in January 2017.

ICE said it has made more than 2,300 criminal and administrative arrests related to workplaces in the 2018 fiscal year, which ended in September, compared to just over 300 in the previous year.

Among the facilities targeted in Wednesday's operation was a Peco Foods processing plant in Canton. On its website, Peco Foods says it is the 8th largest poultry producer in the United States.

Tom Super, the spokesman for the National Chicken Council, an industry group, said meat processing companies do their best to hire legal workers.

"The chicken industry uses every tool in the toolbox to ensure a legal workforce," Super said.

US immigration authorities arrested nearly 700 people at seven agricultural processing plants across Mississippi on Wednesday in what federal officials said could be the largest worksite enforcement operation in a single state.

US immigration authorities arrested nearly 700 people at seven agricultural processing plants across Mississippi on Wednesday in what federal officials said could be the largest worksite enforcement operation in a single state. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said in a statement they detained about 680 people who were working illegally at the plants. They said they also seized business records as part of a federal criminal investigation. Some of those detained will be released for "humanitarian reasons" and required to appear in the US immigration court, the US Attorney's Office of the Southern District of Mississippi, which partnered with ICE, said in a statement. Others will be transported to an ICE facility in Jena, Louisiana, it said. A video released by ICE showed buses arriving at a Canton, Mississippi, processing facility where agents searched workers and checked their identification documents. Some workers had their hands restrained with nylon ties, the video showed. Meanwhile, Mexico said that 122 of its citizens were among the people arrested in the raids. Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard said the government would provide consular assistance and "guarantee the adequate legal defence of all Mexican nationals" detained. Past large operations to enforce immigration laws at workplaces have included the arrest in 2008 of more than 300 workers at a kosher meatpacking plant in Postville, Iowa. Watch: The immigration debate: seesaws placed at US-Mexico border × During the administration of former President Barack Obama, ICE prioritised the arrests of recent border crossers, people who had previously been ordered deported and those seen as a threat to public safety. President Donald Trump has made cracking down on illegal immigration a centrepiece of his presidency, however, and ICE has stepped up its activities considerably since he took office in January 2017. ICE said it has made more than 2,300 criminal and administrative arrests related to workplaces in the 2018 fiscal year, which ended in September, compared to just over 300 in the previous year. Among the facilities targeted in Wednesday's operation was a Peco Foods processing plant in Canton. On its website, Peco Foods says it is the 8th largest poultry producer in the United States. Tom Super, the spokesman for the National Chicken Council, an industry group, said meat processing companies do their best to hire legal workers. "The chicken industry uses every tool in the toolbox to ensure a legal workforce," Super said.

In largest immigration raid, US authorities arrest 680 workers at Mississippi

Thousands of undocumented immigrants waited in uncertainty on Sunday, fearful of the nationwide raids promised by President Donald Trump, but there were no immediate signs of any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starting-fairly-soon-says-trump-on-immigration-raids-233453">large-scale operations</a>.

Even as news media said the raids were underway, Trump added to the divisive debate on migration, suggesting on Twitter that some Democratic Congresswomen should "go back" to their countries of origin.

Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were expected to conduct raids in at least 10 major cities Sunday, with plans to arrest about 2,000 undocumented migrants who entered the United States recently.

The operation appears far more modest than the "millions" Trump had promised would be detained and expelled when he first mentioned the raids last month.

Matthew Albence, ICE's acting director, would not confirm any operational details on Sunday, but defended the need for the raids.

"We are doing targeted enforcement actions against specific individuals who have had their day in immigration court and have been ordered to be removed by an immigration judge," he told "Fox News Sunday."&nbsp;

"We are merely executing those judges' orders."

Activists patrolled the streets of several of major cities to document any arrests and offer assistance to anyone detained.

But while there were scattered reports of possible ICE activity, there were no signs of a large-scale sweep.

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said he had heard of three ICE raids Saturday, but none resulted in arrests.

In Florida, ICE agents were seen knocking on doors near Miami International Airport and in a nearby migrant farming community, the Los Angeles Times reported, but no arrests were reported.

The Washington Post and Baltimore Sun reported little evidence of any large-scale ICE operations. The Sun said few immigrants were seen around Baltimore on Sunday. &nbsp;

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution said authorities in that city had reportedly rented vans for use in raids.

Meanwhile, those likely to be targeted were living in uncertainty.&nbsp;

Adding to their concerns were reports that ICE agents are prepared to scoop up not just those named in removal orders but others whom agents might come upon incidentally, potentially including migrants who have been in the country for years.

'It's traumatising'

Trump said earlier that it was unfair to those seeking to enter the country legally that others simply walk across the border and enjoy the privileges of American life.

Conservative commentators have pressed for tougher action by Trump, pointing out that the Democratic administration of Barack Obama expelled 409,849 people in 2012, compared to the 256,085 expelled under Trump last year.

Ken Cuccinelli, the acting director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, defended the raids.

"If we don't have interior enforcement we don't have deterrents" to illegal migration, he said on ABC's "This Week."

Local and state officials have called on the federal government to show restraint, and several accused Trump of using the operation for political gain.&nbsp;

"This uncertainty, this fear, is wreaking havoc," Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said on CNN. "It's traumatizing people."

On Friday Trump insisted that "most mayors" wanted the raids because "they don't want to have crimes in their cities" -- repeating his frequent but incorrect assertion that migrants are more likely to be criminals than native-born Americans.

De Blasio told CNN on Sunday that the millions of undocumented people in the US are "core to our economy and part of our community" and he accused Trump of using the raids "to foment division."&nbsp;

"What he's doing with our ICE agents is not about securing our borders. It is an electoral effort by President Trump."&nbsp;

Some city officials and pro-migrant groups have sought to educate those who might be targeted about their rights. &nbsp;

If "someone comes to your door," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms said on CNN, "please don't open the door unless they have a warrant."

'Crime infested places'

Trump drew an angry reaction from Democrats on Sunday by saying on Twitter that unnamed progressive Congresswomen should "go back" to the "totally broken and crime-infested places from which they came."

The assistant House speaker, Democrat Ben Ray Lujan, immediately denounced it as "a racist tweet" against American citizens.

The political parties have been wrangling over the conditions facing migrants in badly overcrowded federal detention centres.&nbsp;

Reporters and lawmakers have described detention centres where people sleep on concrete floors and live in filthy conditions.

US officials have acknowledged the overcrowding but insist they are doing their best to provide decent conditions.

The United States has been struggling with the migration crisis on its southern border, as thousands of people stream into the US, mostly from Central American countries struggling with violence and poverty.&nbsp;

More than 100,000 undocumented people arrived last month -- down 28 per cent from May but still a "full-blown emergency," according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Thousands of undocumented immigrants waited in uncertainty on Sunday, fearful of the nationwide raids promised by President Donald Trump, but there were no immediate signs of any large-scale operations.

Thousands of undocumented immigrants waited in uncertainty on Sunday, fearful of the nationwide raids promised by President Donald Trump, but there were no immediate signs of any large-scale operations. Even as news media said the raids were underway, Trump added to the divisive debate on migration, suggesting on Twitter that some Democratic Congresswomen should "go back" to their countries of origin. Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were expected to conduct raids in at least 10 major cities Sunday, with plans to arrest about 2,000 undocumented migrants who entered the United States recently. The operation appears far more modest than the "millions" Trump had promised would be detained and expelled when he first mentioned the raids last month. Matthew Albence, ICE's acting director, would not confirm any operational details on Sunday, but defended the need for the raids. "We are doing targeted enforcement actions against specific individuals who have had their day in immigration court and have been ordered to be removed by an immigration judge," he told "Fox News Sunday." "We are merely executing those judges' orders." Activists patrolled the streets of several of major cities to document any arrests and offer assistance to anyone detained. But while there were scattered reports of possible ICE activity, there were no signs of a large-scale sweep. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said he had heard of three ICE raids Saturday, but none resulted in arrests. In Florida, ICE agents were seen knocking on doors near Miami International Airport and in a nearby migrant farming community, the Los Angeles Times reported, but no arrests were reported. The Washington Post and Baltimore Sun reported little evidence of any large-scale ICE operations. The Sun said few immigrants were seen around Baltimore on Sunday. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution said authorities in that city had reportedly rented vans for use in raids. Meanwhile, those likely to be targeted were living in uncertainty. Adding to their concerns were reports that ICE agents are prepared to scoop up not just those named in removal orders but others whom agents might come upon incidentally, potentially including migrants who have been in the country for years. 'It's traumatising' Trump said earlier that it was unfair to those seeking to enter the country legally that others simply walk across the border and enjoy the privileges of American life. Conservative commentators have pressed for tougher action by Trump, pointing out that the Democratic administration of Barack Obama expelled 409,849 people in 2012, compared to the 256,085 expelled under Trump last year. Ken Cuccinelli, the acting director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, defended the raids. "If we don't have interior enforcement we don't have deterrents" to illegal migration, he said on ABC's "This Week." Local and state officials have called on the federal government to show restraint, and several accused Trump of using the operation for political gain. "This uncertainty, this fear, is wreaking havoc," Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said on CNN. "It's traumatizing people." On Friday Trump insisted that "most mayors" wanted the raids because "they don't want to have crimes in their cities" -- repeating his frequent but incorrect assertion that migrants are more likely to be criminals than native-born Americans. De Blasio told CNN on Sunday that the millions of undocumented people in the US are "core to our economy and part of our community" and he accused Trump of using the raids "to foment division." "What he's doing with our ICE agents is not about securing our borders. It is an electoral effort by President Trump." Some city officials and pro-migrant groups have sought to educate those who might be targeted about their rights. If "someone comes to your door," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms said on CNN, "please don't open the door unless they have a warrant." 'Crime infested places' Trump drew an angry reaction from Democrats on Sunday by saying on Twitter that unnamed progressive Congresswomen should "go back" to the "totally broken and crime-infested places from which they came." The assistant House speaker, Democrat Ben Ray Lujan, immediately denounced it as "a racist tweet" against American citizens. The political parties have been wrangling over the conditions facing migrants in badly overcrowded federal detention centres. Reporters and lawmakers have described detention centres where people sleep on concrete floors and live in filthy conditions. US officials have acknowledged the overcrowding but insist they are doing their best to provide decent conditions. The United States has been struggling with the migration crisis on its southern border, as thousands of people stream into the US, mostly from Central American countries struggling with violence and poverty. More than 100,000 undocumented people arrived last month -- down 28 per cent from May but still a "full-blown emergency," according to the Department of Homeland Security.

As migrants wait in fear, no sign of large-scale US raids

Thousands of undocumented immigrants were waiting in fear and uncertainty ahead of nationwide raids Sunday that President Donald Trump said would lead to a wave of expulsions.

Demonstrators in dozens of cities protested the planned raids, and local and state officials called for restraint, but to no effect.&nbsp;

Before dawn on Sunday, agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are expected to hit the streets of at least 10 major American cities with plans to arrest some 2,000 undocumented migrants who entered the United States recently.

The scope of the operation appears far more modest than the "millions" Trump had promised would be detained and expelled when he first mentioned the raids -- and subsequently postponed -- last month.

But that has not eased the anguish felt by those who fear they might be targeted.&nbsp;

Adding to their concerns are media reports that ICE agents are prepared to scoop up not just those targeted by removal orders but also other undocumented migrants that agents may come upon incidentally.

That, potentially, could include some migrants who have been in the country for years, with homes, jobs and children who are US citizens.

'It's traumatising'

"This uncertainty, this fear, is wreaking havoc," Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said on CNN. "It's traumatising people."

Trump insisted on Friday that "most mayors" want the raids.&nbsp;

"Most mayors do. You know why? They don't want to have crimes in their cities," he said, repeating his frequent -- and incorrect -- &nbsp;assertion that migrants are more likely to be criminals than native-born Americans.

Several mayors have expressed concern about the federal operation.

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez pointed out that in 2018, his first year in office, his Florida city experienced its "lowest homicide rate in 51 years -- so I don't understand the rationale for choosing Miami."

"It doesn't make it easier for us, as mayors, to keep our citizens and those who are in our city ... quiet and calm."

'A political act'

Some city officials, as well as pro-migrant and civil rights groups, have sought to educate those who might be targeted on their rights in the event of a raid.

"We're asking people, if you are in fear of deportation, to stay in on Sunday, to travel in groups," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms said on CNN. If "someone comes to your door, please don't open the door unless they have a warrant."

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio told MSNBC he sees the raids as "a political act to convince a lot of people in America that immigrants are the problem."&nbsp;

Like many other city officials, he fears the aggressive roundup could intimidate migrants, making them less likely in future to cooperate with local police, thus making it harder to ensure public safety.

Millions 'inline'

"We have millions of people standing in line waiting to become citizens of this country," Trump said Friday.&nbsp;

He said it would be unfair to them if others could simply cross the border in an attempt to gain the privileges of American life.

But the impending raids have raised concerns about how a new influx could affect federal detention centres already badly overcrowded. &nbsp;

The United States has been struggling for more than a year with a migration crisis on its southern border, as thousands of people stream into the US each month, mostly from Central American countries riven by violence and poverty.&nbsp;

The number of undocumented arrivals totalled more than 100,000 last month -- down 28 per cent from May but still at a "critical" level, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

On Friday and Saturday, dozens of protests were organised across the country by groups demanding the closing of overcrowded detention centres and opposing the planned raids.&nbsp;

Requisitioning hotels?

Several American news outlets have reported on centres holding young children, separated from their parents, in crowded and unhygienic conditions.

US officials have acknowledged the overcrowding but insisted they are doing their best to provide decent conditions.

Some reports Saturday suggested that ICE might have to requisition hotel rooms to accommodate those detained in the upcoming raids.

A major hotel chain, Marriott International, was asked by AFP whether it had been contacted by the government.

It said it had not yet been contacted, but added, "Marriott has made the decision to decline any requests to use our hotels as detention facilities."

Thousands of undocumented immigrants were waiting in fear and uncertainty ahead of nationwide raids Sunday that President Donald Trump said would lead to a wave of expulsions.

Thousands of undocumented immigrants were waiting in fear and uncertainty ahead of nationwide raids Sunday that President Donald Trump said would lead to a wave of expulsions. Demonstrators in dozens of cities protested the planned raids, and local and state officials called for restraint, but to no effect. Before dawn on Sunday, agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are expected to hit the streets of at least 10 major American cities with plans to arrest some 2,000 undocumented migrants who entered the United States recently. The scope of the operation appears far more modest than the "millions" Trump had promised would be detained and expelled when he first mentioned the raids -- and subsequently postponed -- last month. But that has not eased the anguish felt by those who fear they might be targeted. Adding to their concerns are media reports that ICE agents are prepared to scoop up not just those targeted by removal orders but also other undocumented migrants that agents may come upon incidentally. That, potentially, could include some migrants who have been in the country for years, with homes, jobs and children who are US citizens. 'It's traumatising' "This uncertainty, this fear, is wreaking havoc," Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said on CNN. "It's traumatising people." Trump insisted on Friday that "most mayors" want the raids. "Most mayors do. You know why? They don't want to have crimes in their cities," he said, repeating his frequent -- and incorrect -- assertion that migrants are more likely to be criminals than native-born Americans. Several mayors have expressed concern about the federal operation. Miami Mayor Francis Suarez pointed out that in 2018, his first year in office, his Florida city experienced its "lowest homicide rate in 51 years -- so I don't understand the rationale for choosing Miami." "It doesn't make it easier for us, as mayors, to keep our citizens and those who are in our city ... quiet and calm." 'A political act' Some city officials, as well as pro-migrant and civil rights groups, have sought to educate those who might be targeted on their rights in the event of a raid. "We're asking people, if you are in fear of deportation, to stay in on Sunday, to travel in groups," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms said on CNN. If "someone comes to your door, please don't open the door unless they have a warrant." New York Mayor Bill de Blasio told MSNBC he sees the raids as "a political act to convince a lot of people in America that immigrants are the problem." Like many other city officials, he fears the aggressive roundup could intimidate migrants, making them less likely in future to cooperate with local police, thus making it harder to ensure public safety. Millions 'inline' "We have millions of people standing in line waiting to become citizens of this country," Trump said Friday. He said it would be unfair to them if others could simply cross the border in an attempt to gain the privileges of American life. But the impending raids have raised concerns about how a new influx could affect federal detention centres already badly overcrowded. The United States has been struggling for more than a year with a migration crisis on its southern border, as thousands of people stream into the US each month, mostly from Central American countries riven by violence and poverty. The number of undocumented arrivals totalled more than 100,000 last month -- down 28 per cent from May but still at a "critical" level, according to the Department of Homeland Security. On Friday and Saturday, dozens of protests were organised across the country by groups demanding the closing of overcrowded detention centres and opposing the planned raids. Requisitioning hotels? Several American news outlets have reported on centres holding young children, separated from their parents, in crowded and unhygienic conditions. US officials have acknowledged the overcrowding but insisted they are doing their best to provide decent conditions. Some reports Saturday suggested that ICE might have to requisition hotel rooms to accommodate those detained in the upcoming raids. A major hotel chain, Marriott International, was asked by AFP whether it had been contacted by the government. It said it had not yet been contacted, but added, "Marriott has made the decision to decline any requests to use our hotels as detention facilities."

As US agents prepare to arrest 'thousands,' migrants live in fear