Story perspectives

Over 4,000 Arrests Spark Protests Amid Operation Metro Surge

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

DHS reported over 4,000 arrests of illegal immigrants in Minnesota since Operation Metro Surge began in late 2025.
Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, said the arrests target dangerous criminals, including murderers and rapists.
Leavitt added the operation aims to reverse damage from open border policies.
Local officials have not received detailed data from DHS.
Protests have erupted in response to the crackdown, with fatalities.

History

Historical Context

In 1954, the U.S. government launched Operation Wetback, deporting over 1.1 million undocumented Mexican immigrants amid rising public concern over illegal immigration. This operation echoed earlier repatriation efforts during the Great Depression, which saw hundreds of thousands deported. Today’s Operation Metro Surge reflects ongoing tensions in U.S. immigration policy, balancing enforcement with humanitarian issues, and continues to influence immigration discourse.

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Story summary

DHS reported over 4,000 arrests of illegal immigrants in Minnesota since Operation Metro Surge began in late 2025.
Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, said the arrests target dangerous criminals, including murderers and rapists.
Leavitt added the operation aims to reverse damage from open border policies.
Local officials have not received detailed data from DHS.
Protests have erupted in response to the crackdown, with fatalities.

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