Tensions Rise in Columbus as Somali Community Faces ICE Operations

The Somali community in Columbus, Ohio, has grown significantly since the 1990s, when tens of thousands of refugees fled civil unrest in Somalia. Today, approximately 60,000 Somali Americans reside in the area, contributing to the local economy through an estimated 500 businesses, particularly in healthcare and distribution sectors. However, recent political rhetoric and federal actions have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty within this community.

The Guardian

In late December 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) initiated "Operation Buckeye," targeting what it described as "the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens" in Columbus. This operation coincided with inflammatory remarks from then-President Donald Trump, who accused Somali Americans of "ripping off the country." Following these comments, ICE agents began surveilling Somali-owned businesses, including the 161 Child Care facility co-owned by Abukar Mohammed. Reports indicate that intimidation tactics were employed, with individuals threatening community members and claiming they would be deported.

The Guardian

The impact of these operations has been profound. Many Somali-owned businesses have reported a decline in customers, and schools serving immigrant populations have seen attendance drop significantly. Mohammed expressed his shock at the racial hostility, stating, “I never thought that in America there would be racial things, that this could happen in America.”

The Guardian

In response to the heightened tensions, two Republican representatives in Ohio proposed legislation requiring recording equipment in state-funded childcare facilities. Conversely, the Columbus city council enacted a law prohibiting local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE without prior council approval. Kawther Musa, a community relations officer, emphasized the importance of addressing hate speech and the need for careful leadership to avoid inflaming tensions.

The Guardian

Despite the challenges, community leaders like Hassan Omar of the Somali Community Association of Ohio remain committed to supporting their community. Omar reported receiving death threats and noted that the targeting of Somali organizations by right-wing influencers has intensified. He stated, “That’s not normal,” highlighting the distressing climate faced by community members.

The Guardian

A significant concern for the Somali community is the impending expiration of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 2,500 Somali nationals in the U.S., set to end on March 17, 2026. This decision comes amid worsening conditions in Somalia, where the World Food Programme warns of potential cuts to emergency food aid due to funding shortages. The U.S. Department of State has issued travel warnings for Somalia, citing crime and civil unrest, further complicating the situation for those facing deportation.

The Guardian

• “I’m scared to go outside. They drive around, they cuss, they say bad stuff.” — Abukar Mohammed, Co-owner of 161 Child Care

The Guardian

• “Our community works hard, follows regulations and values education,” — Kawther Musa, Community Relations Officer

The Guardian

• “[The called me] ‘motherfucker, go back to Somalia,’ I don’t know how they got my cell number,” — Hassan Omar, Somali Community Association of Ohio

The Guardian

• “So imagine somebody who lived here for 36 or 37 years [and now] has to go back.” — Hassan Omar, on the impact of TPS expiration

The Guardian

The situation remains fluid as the Somali community in Columbus navigates the challenges posed by federal immigration enforcement and local legislative responses.

The Guardian