3,000 Arrests in 6 Weeks!

A high-stakes legal battle looms as Minnesota’s sanctuary policies collide with federal immigration enforcement, putting residents at risk.

Story Highlights

Federal ICE operations clash with Minnesota’s sanctuary policies.
3,000 arrests reported in just six weeks amid growing tensions.
State officials file a lawsuit against DHS, citing constitutional violations.

Federal Enforcement Meets Local Resistance

In December 2025, the federal government initiated “Operation Metro Surge,” deploying thousands of DHS agents to Minnesota’s Twin Cities. This operation aims to target and arrest criminal illegal immigrants. However, state and local officials, adhering to sanctuary policies, have resisted these efforts, creating a significant conflict between federal and local authorities. As a result, residents face increased risks from criminal activities, while ICE agents are accused of racial profiling.

By early January 2026, tensions escalated with intensified raids causing clashes and protests. Reports emerged of racial profiling, including the stopping of U.S. citizens and off-duty police officers. On January 7, a tragic incident occurred when an ICE agent shot and killed Renee Good during an encounter in Minneapolis, further fueling the controversy and leading to public outcry.

Legal Battle Over Constitutional Claims

On January 12, 2026, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, with Minneapolis and St. Paul, filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security. The lawsuit claims that the federal operation violates the First and Tenth Amendments, arguing for state sovereignty and protection of immigrant communities. The DOJ has responded, labeling the lawsuit as “legally frivolous” and accusing Minnesota of attempting to veto federal law.

Despite ongoing arrests, the operation and accompanying legal battles have strained local law enforcement resources. Police chiefs have criticized some ICE tactics, advocating for balanced enforcement that respects community rights. Meanwhile, the operation continues, leading to over 3,000 arrests in Minnesota within six weeks, highlighting the federal administration’s commitment to immigration enforcement.

Implications for Minnesota and Beyond

The ongoing operation and legal proceedings hold significant implications for Minnesota and possibly other sanctuary states. Short-term effects include increased police overtime costs and business revenue losses due to fear-driven lockdowns. Long-term, this case could set a precedent on federal-state relations regarding immigration enforcement, potentially influencing similar sanctuary-federal disputes nationwide.

For Twin Cities residents, the situation remains tense, with communities divided over the necessity and execution of federal operations. As the legal battle unfolds, both federal and local authorities grapple with balancing enforcement with community trust and constitutional rights.