Trump's massive deportation operation begins with 538 arrested including terrorists and sex offenders

In the first days of President Donald Trump’s second term, U.S. authorities have initiated what is being termed the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. The operation, led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has already resulted in the arrest of 538 illegal immigrants. Those detained include a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and multiple individuals convicted of serious crimes such as sexual abuse of minors. The arrests are part of a targeted effort to address illegal immigration, particularly among individuals engaged in violent or criminal activities.

In addition to the arrests, hundreds of individuals have been deported, with many being transported on military aircraft. The deportations are being carried out as part of a comprehensive plan to enforce U.S. immigration laws and enhance national security. ICE has emphasized that the operation focuses on individuals with criminal backgrounds, those posing threats to public safety, and repeat offenders.

The operation follows an executive order signed by President Trump on January 20, titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.” This executive order highlights concerns over what the administration describes as a significant rise in illegal immigration over recent years, which has led to millions of undocumented individuals residing in the U.S. The order directs federal agencies to take immediate and decisive action to address the illegal immigration crisis, with a particular focus on criminal immigrants.

Raids were also conducted in Newark, New Jersey, a sanctuary city, as part of the operation. In Newark, ICE agents detained both undocumented immigrants and legal residents. These actions are in line with the Trump administration’s stance on sanctuary cities, which are areas that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The raids in Newark and other locations signal an increased federal presence in local jurisdictions that have policies shielding undocumented individuals from deportation.

The operation is backed by the Laken Riley Act, passed by the U.S. Congress on January 23, 2025. The new law streamlines the process for the detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants involved in specific criminal activities, allowing for expedited deportations. The law adds further legal support for the ongoing operation, which is expected to continue and expand in scope.

In total, the Trump administration’s efforts aim to remove undocumented immigrants from the U.S., focusing on those who have been convicted of crimes such as drug trafficking, assault, sexual offenses, and other violent crimes. This approach is part of the broader policy framework that has been a core component of Trump’s immigration platform. The administration continues to emphasize the threat posed by illegal immigration to national security and public safety, making the ongoing deportation operation a central focus of its immigration agenda. As the operation progresses, additional arrests and deportations are expected, and the U.S. government’s approach to border security remains a subject of widespread debate.