Story perspectives

Chaos Erupts in Chinatown Over Controversial ICE Raid

10/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security described the operation as targeting counterfeit goods in New York City's Chinatown.
Agents detained nine undocumented immigrants and four U.S. citizens.
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as crowds protested and chanted against ICE.
Mayor Eric Adams (D-N.Y.) and Governor Kathy Hochul (D-N.Y.) condemned the raid as an overreach of federal power.
Critics labeled the operation fearmongering because street vendors do not pose a national security threat.

History

Historical Context

Operation Wetback, initiated in June 1954 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, aimed to deport undocumented Mexican immigrants, resulting in over 1.1 million removals. This operation, which faced backlash from communities and civil rights advocates, reflects a historical pattern of resistance against federal immigration enforcement, echoing current protests against ICE actions in New York City’s Chinatown.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security described the operation as targeting counterfeit goods in New York City's Chinatown.
Agents detained nine undocumented immigrants and four U.S. citizens.
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as crowds protested and chanted against ICE.
Mayor Eric Adams (D-N.Y.) and Governor Kathy Hochul (D-N.Y.) condemned the raid as an overreach of federal power.
Critics labeled the operation fearmongering because street vendors do not pose a national security threat.

1 / 2