Confrontation Unfolds Between Protesters and Law Enforcement During Federal Operation in Minneapolis

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16537406/original/open-uri20250603-55-1fd3pzi?1748980148
ICARO Media Group
Politics
03/06/2025 19h32

The incident centered around Lake Street near Bloomington Avenue, where officers, dressed in green camouflage and helmets, were stationed in front of a local business.

Social media buzzed with footage showing a heavy law enforcement presence. At around 11 a.m., videos on Facebook depicted at least seven armed officers behind a green military vehicle, ordering individuals to reveal themselves with raised hands. Minneapolis police vehicles were also noted at the scene.

Community concerns swiftly arose when the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee called for action through their Facebook page, and a subsequent video indicated an even larger force of about 30 officers, identified as agents from the FBI, ATF, ICE, and Minneapolis Police. In an effort to disperse the gathering crowd, officers used pepper-based munitions, and at least three protesters were seen with flex cuffs around their wrists.

While federal agencies did not immediately provide comments, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office clarified the action on its X account at 1 p.m., emphasizing that it was part of a criminal investigation unrelated to immigration enforcement. They further explained that multiple search warrants were executed across the metro area, including a business on Lake Street and Bloomington Avenue. The Sheriff's Office stressed their lack of involvement in immigration issues.

Ryan Perez from Communities Organizing Latine Power and Action (COPAL) reported that they were informed about the law enforcement presence at a local restaurant, Cuatro Milpas, and noted seeing Homeland Security Investigations agents on site. Minneapolis Council Member Jason Chavez, present at the scene, criticized the operation, highlighting the visible ICE badges and questioning the Minneapolis Police Department’s participation.

By noon, around 100 protesters had gathered, some chanting slogans like "Power to the people! No one is illegal!" Vash Lamp of the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC) arrived around 11:30 a.m., witnessing officers with ICE patches and several Minneapolis police squads. He detailed the use of pepper spray, rubber bullets, and arrests among protesters.

Community member Jen Johnson expressed her shock and concern, noting the heavy-handed law enforcement approach and the blocked off alley preventing visibility of arrests. Despite the tense atmosphere, she found solace in the community's strong turnout in support of their neighbors.

The scene remained dynamic with ongoing updates and a developing story. Law enforcement's heavy presence and the community's swift reaction underscored the deep-seated concerns about federal operations intersecting with local issues.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related