The ICE raids are over, but some Minnesotans say they still live in fear

June 25, 2026

Following the conclusion of Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota, immigrant communities continue experiencing lasting fear and trauma despite the withdrawal of hundreds of federal immigration agents. The operation, which began in December as part of President Trump's immigration crackdown and was linked to childcare fraud investigations, drew intense public criticism after federal agents fatally shot two U.S. citizen protesters in January. While the administration declared the operation successful and reduced agent presence from over a thousand to several hundred, ICE enforcement continues at lower levels.

Who is affected

Immigrant communities in Minnesota, particularly Afghan and Somali refugees with asylum status or green cards (such as Aliah and Fatima)
Students who missed months of in-person schooling or had to drop out to support families
Families who lost jobs during the operation
U.S. citizens including teachers like Katie who organized aid efforts
Two U.S. citizen protesters (Renee Good and Alex Pretti) who were killed by federal agents
International Institute of Minnesota and other refugee service organizations

What action is being taken

ICE is conducting targeted immigration enforcement operations with remaining agents (482 agents in Minnesota as of March, according to ACLU-MN)
Schools dispersed remaining aid funds in April
Community organizations continue providing support to affected families
The deportation operation has become "more surgical" with less visible activity

Why it matters

The operation created lasting trauma and fear within immigrant communities that extends beyond the official end of the surge, affecting people's willingness to attend school, work, and engage in daily activities. The shooting deaths of two U.S. citizen protesters raised serious concerns about federal enforcement tactics and civil liberties. The ongoing presence of federal agents, even at reduced levels, continues to create uncertainty for both documented and undocumented immigrants, impacting the social and economic fabric of Minnesota's diverse communities.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC