In a six-day operation, USCIS aided ICE in the apprehension of 370 illegal immigrants in Massachusetts. Six of these individuals were international fugitives, and 205 had criminal records. Targeting transnational gangs, authorities confiscated firearms and illicit drugs. Federal agencies strive to curb illegal immigration and organized crime in the U.S.
Central Immigration Enforcement Operation Massachusetts
Between March 18 and 23, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) was instrumental in facilitating an investigation that culminated in the arrest of 370 individuals who were who resided in the United States illegally in Massachusetts. The operation, which targeted immigrants tied to organized crimes and criminal history, was coordinated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and federal law enforcement agencies.
Targeting on High-Risk Criminal Offenders
Authorities reported that 205 arrested had pending charges or prior criminal convictions. Six of them were international fugitives who had been charged or convicted of crimes like money laundering, drug trafficking, homicide, and organized crime participation. Several transnational criminal organizations, such as MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Trinitarios, and 18th Street gangs, have been identified by law enforcement as operating in Massachusetts. The operation aimed to disband these criminal organizations and end unlawful activities in the United States.
Seizure of Dangerous Substances and Weapons
Law enforcement officials seized numerous illegal firearms and drugs over the course of the six-day operation. During the seizures, about 44 kg of methamphetamine, 5 kg of fentanyl, and 1.2 kg of cocaine were discovered.
Three firearms and ammunition were also found by the authorities, underscoring the criminal nature of the people detained.
Challenges Posed by Local Non-Cooperation
ICE officials pointed out that many of these individuals had previously been detained but were later released by local jurisdictions that refused to comply with federal immigration detainer requests, forcing ICE agents to make at-large arrests in communities throughout Massachusetts instead of obtaining custody transfers from local detention facilities. Federal officials highlighted that citizens’ unwillingness to aid enforcement officers in eradicating illegal activities would only endanger the public.
Collaborative Effort Among Federal Agencies
Federal agencies worked together on this operation, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in fostering immigration enforcement efforts. The Boston offices of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Marshals Service, the Diplomatic Security Service, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and USCIS were essential partners.
Looking Forward – USCIS Backs ICE Investigation That Arrests 370 Illegal Immigrants in Massachusetts
This operation represents a significant attempt to target high-risk individuals who are living in the United States illegally. To improve public safety and dismantle criminal networks, ICE officials have stated that similar enforcement actions will continue. Future enforcement tactics may be influenced by legislative developments and shifts in administrative priorities if the discussion surrounding immigration laws and local-federal cooperation continues.
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