ICE Agents Raid Newark Business, Detain Multiple Individuals
A recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Newark, New Jersey, has drawn strong criticism from local officials and community leaders. The raid, which took place on Thursday, reportedly targeted unauthorized immigrants but also resulted in the detention of U.S. citizens, including a military veteran.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka condemned the operation, stating that ICE agents acted without a warrant and unlawfully detained individuals. The incident has sparked concerns over civil rights violations and has intensified debates over immigration enforcement tactics in sanctuary cities.
Details of the ICE Operation Remain Unclear
Authorities have not yet disclosed specific details about the operation, including the exact location, the number of people detained, or whether any arrests were made. However, Mayor Baraka claimed that multiple individuals were taken into custody, including a veteran whose military documentation was questioned.
“Newark will not stand by idly while people are being unlawfully terrorized,” Baraka said, calling the raid “egregious” and a violation of constitutional rights. He cited the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, suggesting that the ICE agents overstepped their legal boundaries.
ICE Defends Its Actions Amid Backlash
In response to the criticism, ICE released a statement defending the operation, stating that their agents sometimes encounter U.S. citizens during enforcement activities and may request identification to verify their status.
“As was the case during a targeted enforcement operation at a worksite today, ICE agents may request identification to establish an individual’s identity,” an ICE spokesperson explained. The agency also mentioned that the operation was part of an active investigation but did not provide further details.
Political Leaders and Community Members Express Outrage
The ICE raid has sparked a strong reaction from political leaders, with many criticizing the agency’s tactics.
Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman denounced the operation, calling it an example of “Trump’s reign of terror.” She referenced the recent pardoning of individuals involved in the January 6 insurrection, contrasting it with the treatment of innocent civilians in Newark.
Rep. LaMonica McIver, whose district includes part of Newark, also condemned the raid, questioning how ICE was allowed to detain both immigrants and U.S. citizens without a warrant. She confirmed that her office was in contact with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to get answers.
New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim released a joint statement expressing concern over the incident. They criticized ICE’s actions for “sowing fear in communities” and called for immigration reforms that focus on solutions rather than intimidation tactics.
Policy Shift Under Trump Administration Raises Concerns
The raid comes amid broader changes to immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration. In recent days, DHS announced the termination of a policy that had previously restricted ICE from making arrests near sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
This policy change has alarmed many advocates, as it signals a more aggressive approach to immigration enforcement, particularly in sanctuary cities like Newark. Critics argue that such tactics undermine trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, making it harder for individuals to seek protection or report crimes.
The Newark ICE raid has reignited debates over immigration enforcement and civil rights. With reports of U.S. citizens and a veteran being detained without warrants, concerns over constitutional violations have intensified.
As political leaders demand answers, the controversy highlights the broader tensions surrounding immigration policies in the U.S. The incident also raises questions about the future of ICE operations in sanctuary cities, as the administration continues to implement stricter immigration measures.
