ICE raids spark controversy over New York's police involvement
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out raids in New York on Tuesday, targeting undocumented immigrants. Local police supported the operation, reports NBC. These actions are part of the Trump administration's strategy to increase the number of deportations.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was present during an arrest in the Highbridge neighborhood of the Bronx. The Furman Center at New York University notes that the crime rate in this neighborhood is higher than the citywide average.
Although city regulations prohibit police from engaging in immigration law enforcement, New York officers were part of the Department of Homeland Security's task force.
The arrested individual was wanted for serious crimes, including kidnapping and assault.
"We will not hesitate to partner with federal authorities"
New York City Mayor Eric Adams emphasized that the city will collaborate with federal authorities to bring violent criminals to justice.
- We will not hesitate to partner with federal authorities to bring violent criminals to justice — just as we have done for years. Our commitment to protecting our city’s law-abiding residents, both citizens and immigrants, remains unwavering - stated New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
President of the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) Murad Awawdeh condemned the enforcement actions as a "publicity raid." He published photos and videos of Noem in a bulletproof vest, leading the operation in the Bronx.
- No matter how the Trump administration spins this enforcement, it is not about public safety — it is about instilling fear in our immigrant communities - Awawdeh, quoted by NBC, argued.
