Tom Homan ends Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota

US Border Security Chief Announces Conclusion of Federal Operation in Minnesota

A federal operation launched by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on December 1 has concluded, with approximately 700 immigration agents set to leave the state of Minnesota. Tom Homan, the US border security chief, made the announcement at a news conference on Thursday.

The operation, known as Operation Metro Surge, aimed to target individuals in the Minneapolis-St Paul metro area who were deemed to pose a risk to public safety. According to federal authorities, over 4,000 people have been arrested during the sweeps. Homan stated that ICE will continue its efforts to identify and remove individuals who pose a threat to public safety, but emphasized that this approach will not change.

Homan’s announcement comes after a period of controversy surrounding the operation, with some critics accusing it of targeting law-abiding citizens and children. Governor Tim Walz had previously expressed concerns about the operation, calling it an “occupation” and a “retribution campaign” against the state. However, Homan maintained that the operation was focused on public safety.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also met with Homan to discuss potential future drawdowns of federal officers in the city. The Department of Homeland Security declined to comment on Governor Walz’s remarks about the operation.

Source: Al Jazeera