Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Steven John
St. Paul, Minn.

In nationwide operation, ICE arrests 26 in Twin Cities

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Federal immigration officials said a nationwide crackdown on gangs has led to 26 arrests in Minneapolis and surrounding communities.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said many of those arrested were connected to gangs with ties to drug trafficking organizations in Mexico, South America and Asia.

ICE spokesman Tim Counts said the Twin Cities arrests involved immigration violations, so the suspects could be deported. Counts said while ICE agents worked closely with state and local law enforcement agencies, he said federal operations like the so-called Project Big Freeze have a big advantage.

"And that's not only to take gang members off the streets, but remove them from the country entirely. Now it's true, sometimes those individuals come back, but anyone who reenters the country after being deported can face criminal charges including a prison sentence up to 20 years," Counts said.

Nationwide, the operation resulted in the arrest of more than 450 alleged gang members in 83 cities.