Federal law enforcement agencies are reportedly preparing a significant immigration enforcement operation in the Los Angeles area, scheduled to occur before the end of February 2025.
This initiative, led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), aims to apprehend individuals residing illegally in the United States and those with pending removal orders.
Due to the scale of the operation, ICE has enlisted support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
An internal government document, which has been leaked to the media, outlines the plan for this large-scale enforcement action.
While similar operations have been conducted in various parts of the country since President Trump’s tenure, Los Angeles has not yet experienced such a comprehensive raid.
The unpredictable nature of the administration and potential resistance from some agents could lead to changes in the planned operation.
In response to inquiries about the upcoming operation, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller stated that the agency has been assisting in immigration operations since the end of January, primarily in a supportive role.
Similarly, Matthew Allen, who leads the DEA’s Los Angeles office, confirmed that his agency would provide support when required.
The announcement of this planned raid has sparked protests in downtown Los Angeles.
Demonstrators briefly blocked the 101 Freeway on February 2, and a teenager was stabbed during a protest on February 7.
These incidents reflect the heightened tensions and opposition to the administration’s mass deportation strategy.
While federal agencies are coordinating for the upcoming operation, some local law enforcement agencies have chosen not to participate.
For instance, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, located just outside of Los Angeles County, has stated that they will not engage in any type of immigration enforcement, emphasizing that it is the sole responsibility of the federal government.
As the end of February approaches, the situation remains dynamic, with potential for changes in the planned enforcement action due to internal and external factors.
