Feds Prepare for Major Immigration Raids in Los Angeles This Month

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Federal law enforcement agencies are gearing up for a significant immigration enforcement operation in the Los Angeles area by the end of February, according to an internal government memo reviewed by the Los Angeles Times. The operation, led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), aims to target individuals lacking legal status in the U.S. and those with outstanding removal orders.

This initiative marks the first large-scale immigration action in Los Angeles since the commencement of enhanced enforcement under the Trump administration, which has focused on various sanctuary cities across the nation.

A source within federal law enforcement, speaking under the condition of anonymity, revealed that agents from the FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Los Angeles field offices are being called in to provide additional support. “They needed more bodies,” the source stated, hinting at the multi-agency nature of the impending operation.

Although ICE has not released a detailed comment on the upcoming action, the growing collaboration among federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, highlights the seriousness of the initiative. FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller confirmed the agency has been assisting with immigration operations since late January, describing its role as supportive.

“When asked to support immigration enforcement actions, we will review the capabilities and shift resources as necessary to provide support,” remarked Matthew Allen, who leads the DEA’s Los Angeles office.

The Los Angeles Times reported that the operation’s details were shared among select federal officials last week, prompting an outcry from community members and activists concerned about the potential impact on vulnerable workers. The area is home to a significant number of undocumented workers, including housekeepers and gardeners, who may face imminent job loss and personal distress due to the raids.

Demonstrations against the Trump administration’s immigration policy have been increasing in Los Angeles and other populous regions. Protesters have gathered to express their opposition, with some blocking major thoroughfares and engaging in days-long demonstrations, including walkouts from local high schools. Activists call for the protection of immigrant rights and lament the repercussions of mass deportation strategies.

ICE has ramped up its social media presence, posting updates about arrests, including individuals with serious criminal backgrounds. However, the looming raids present uncertainty and fear within immigrant communities.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the leak of information about the impending operation. Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, indicated that the disclosure may impede the enforcement efforts aimed at apprehending members of violent gangs.

“This is not a game,” Homan stated, emphasizing the need for operational security in these proceedings.

As the clock ticks down toward the anticipated enforcement action, the situation remains fluid, with potential adjustments to the timeline and approach likely due to the complexities surrounding law enforcement cooperation and community response.