Federal immigration raids hit New Orleans and Minneapolis

Thursday, December 4, 2025 -Federal agents on Wednesday launched sweeping immigration enforcement operations in New Orleans and Minneapolis — part of a broader nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants. 

In New Orleans, the effort, known as Operation Catahoula Crunch, targets immigrants with prior violent-crime arrests, including home invasions, armed robbery, and rape, particularly those released under local “sanctuary” policies. Officials say the operation could lead to thousands of arrests.

In Minneapolis, authorities began a parallel sweep aimed at undocumented immigrants, with increased attention on Somali residents following recent remarks by the president that stirred controversy and alarm within the community. 

Local leaders warn the operation risks endangering not only undocumented individuals but also long-standing residents and lawful immigrants caught in the pressure of the enforcement surge.

The operations have already triggered fear and uncertainty across immigrant communities in both cities. In New Orleans, some businesses have closed, residents are avoiding public spaces, and immigrant-rights groups are mobilizing to monitor potential abuses. 

In Minneapolis, community leaders continue to express concerns about racial profiling and due-process violations. Collectively, the crackdowns reignite debate over federal immigration authority, local autonomy, and civil-rights protections in cities long identified as “sanctuary” jurisdictions.