Thursday, January 22, 2026-Federal authorities have expanded immigration enforcement into Maine, launching a new operation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that has already resulted in dozens of arrests and heightened tensions across the state.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the effort part of a broader national strategy began this week under the name Operation Catch of the Day, with ICE agents targeting individuals living unlawfully in the U.S. who have criminal convictions or are considered high‑priority targets. Early reports show roughly 50 arrests on the first day, and federal officials say they have identified more than 1,000 additional targets statewide.
The enforcement activity has unfolded in cities including Portland, Lewiston, Westbrook, and South Portland, where federal agents have been highly visible and local immigrant communities are responding with alarm and concern.
Maine Governor Janet Mills has publicly questioned the federal operation, demanding more data on arrests, warrants, and detainee information while expressing concern about its effects on civil rights and public safety. Schools and businesses in some areas have seen disruptions as residents particularly those from Somali and other African refugee communities avoid public spaces amid the heightened enforcement.
The operation has drawn mixed reactions from elected officials and residents. Some local leaders have condemned the federal approach as overly aggressive and intimidating, arguing it undermines trust and public safety, while other lawmakers have said targeted enforcement of criminal offenders can be legitimate if focused on individuals who pose a risk to the community.
The action in Maine follows similar immigration enforcement efforts in other states and comes amid broader national debates over federal immigration policy and law enforcement priorities in advance of the 2026 election cycle.
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