Full Breakdown
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)’s “Operation Safe Community” sweeps Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland
8/25/2026, 1:07:13 AM
Operation Safe Community – Washington, D.C.: Scope and Results
From August 1 through a two-week period, U.S. Multiple ICE sources reported that 1,328 illegal immigrants were arrested during the effort. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) later described the total as “over 1,300” arrests.
Background: Sanctuary policies and crime concerns
Virginia and Maryland counties with sanctuary-type policies have been highlighted by DHS as locations where illegal-immigrant-related crime, including violent and sexual offenses, has occurred. The operation was framed as targeting individuals with criminal histories, according to DHS officials.
Data & Statistics
- Arrests: 1,328 illegal immigrants (ICE sources) / over 1,300 (DHS).
- Criminal records: Almost 400 of those arrested had either convictions or pending charges, ranging from rape and sexual assault to kidnapping, DUI, robbery and attempted murder.
- Gang affiliations: Members of MS-13, 18th Street Gang and Tren de Aragua were among those detained, per DHS statements.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Over the course of just two weeks in Virginia and Maryland, they arrested sexual assailants, kidnappers, drunk drivers, robbers, and gang members,” — Markwayne Mullin, homeland security secretary
