The Trump administration has launched a new immigration enforcement operation in Chicago, targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records. The operation, called “Operation Midway Blitz,” was announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and marks one of the most aggressive immigration crackdowns the city has seen in recent years.
According to DHS officials, the raid is focused on locating and arresting individuals they describe as “the worst of the worst” including members of violent gangs, repeat offenders, and those previously released from custody under Illinois’ sanctuary policies.
“For years, Governor Pritzker and his fellow sanctuary politicians have allowed dangerous individuals including gang members, rapists, kidnappers, and drug traffickers to walk free in Chicago,” said Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary. “This operation is about restoring law and order.”
Details of the Operation
“Operation Midway Blitz” involves coordination between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies. The DHS released a list of 11 individuals with prior criminal convictions who were allegedly released back into the community and are now being targeted for arrest.
Federal agents have begun conducting targeted raids across various neighborhoods in Chicago. So far, the government has not disclosed how many individuals have been detained.
Officials say the operation is ongoing and may expand if local cooperation remains limited.
No Coordination with Local Authorities
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, a Democrat, criticized the operation, stating that it was launched without any consultation or coordination with state or city officials.
“This isn’t about crime it’s about fear,” Pritzker said in a public statement. “The Trump administration didn’t reach out to Chicago authorities before launching this raid. This is a political stunt meant to intimidate, not protect.”
The Governor also shared resources on social media informing residents of their rights when approached by federal immigration agents.
What This Means for Chicago
The launch of Operation Midway Blitz has triggered concern among immigrant communities, advocacy groups, and some local leaders who fear that the raids could lead to wrongful arrests, family separations, and increased tension between residents and law enforcement.
Legal aid groups have started holding emergency workshops and sharing information about immigrants’ legal rights, especially when approached by ICE.
At the same time, supporters of the operation argue that stricter enforcement is necessary to reduce crime and hold individuals accountable.
Conclusion
The immigration raid in Chicago marks a significant escalation in the Trump administration’s approach to immigration enforcement. While DHS says the operation is focused on high-risk individuals, local officials and civil rights groups remain skeptical calling for transparency, oversight, and respect for due process.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how the federal government handles arrests, community reactions, and the broader impact on one of America’s largest and most diverse cities.
