By HAN News Desk
MINEAPOLIS – Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has strongly criticised a reported plan for 100 officers from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) to be deployed to the city to carry out deportation operations targeting members of the Somali community.
Speaking at a community gathering, Mayor Frey reassured Somali residents that the city stands firmly with them, saying, “We love you, and we stand with you.” His comments were aimed at easing concerns following widespread reports that federal immigration officers were preparing a concentrated operation in Minneapolis, home to one of the largest Somali communities in the United States.
Frey, who has previously taken public positions against aggressive federal immigration enforcement within city limits, said Minneapolis would continue to uphold its commitment to protecting immigrant communities. He emphasised that city authorities would not support actions that create fear or undermine trust between residents and local government.
Community leaders have expressed alarm over the reported ICE plans, warning that such an operation could lead to panic among Somali families, many of whom have deep roots in Minneapolis and contribute significantly to the city’s economic and cultural life.
Federal officials have not publicly commented on the reports, but local advocacy groups say they are preparing legal and community support in case the operation proceeds.
The Somali community in Minneapolis has faced heightened scrutiny and immigration pressures in recent years, and Mayor Frey’s remarks were welcomed as a sign of solidarity from city leadership.
