By Emmanuel Kwada
President Donald Trump has issued a directive calling for an intensified deportation campaign, described as the “single largest mass deportation program in history,” targeting major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, according to a post on Truth Social.
The order mobilizes federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Department of Defense, to ramp up arrests and deportations of undocumented immigrants, with a focus on so-called “sanctuary cities” that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The announcement follows a series of ICE raids in Los Angeles, which began on June 6, 2025, targeting workplaces such as the garment district and other locations. These operations have led to over 100,000 arrests nationwide since Trump’s second term began, with a single-day record of 2,200 arrests on June 4, 2025.
While the administration claims to prioritize deporting immigrants with criminal records, reports indicate that nearly half of those detained in recent raids are nonviolent offenders or lack criminal convictions, raising concerns among advocates about the scope of the crackdown.
the raids have sparked days of protests, with hundreds arrested and an overnight curfew imposed in downtown areas
In Los Angeles, the raids have sparked days of protests, with hundreds arrested and an overnight curfew imposed in downtown areas. Demonstrations, largely peaceful but marked by sporadic violence, including looting and clashes with law enforcement, have spread to cities like New York, Chicago, Seattle, and Austin.
The deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles, ordered by Trump without a request from California Governor Gavin Newsom, has drawn sharp criticism from state officials, who call it an overreach and a provocation.
Protests have also erupted in New York, where dozens were arrested during demonstrations outside federal buildings, and in Chicago, where Mayor Brandon Johnson labeled Trump’s actions as authoritarian.
The “No Kings” movement, organizing nationwide rallies, has gained traction, with planned demonstrations coinciding with a military parade in Washington, D.C., on June 14, 2025.
In response to backlash from agricultural and hospitality industries, Trump recently ordered ICE to pause raids on farms, hotels, and restaurants, acknowledging the economic impact on these sectors. However, the administration continues to push for a daily arrest quota of 3,000, with support from agencies like the DEA, FBI, and Customs and Border Protection.
No Kings” movement, organizing nationwide rallies, has gained traction, with planned demonstrations coinciding with a military parade in Washington
Critics, including California Senator Alex Padilla and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, argue that the raids are tearing apart communities and targeting law-abiding immigrants. Supporters, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, defend the operations as necessary for national security and law enforcement.
We are only building momentum
Public opinion remains divided, with polls showing 46-54% approval for Trump’s immigration policies but growing disapproval of his response to protests.
The situation remains fluid, with legal challenges pending and further protests expected. The administration has vowed to continue its immigration enforcement, with DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stating, “We are only building momentum.”
Read Also: Seven killed in fresh air crash in India
