Overview
- Federal authorities say hundreds have been detained since Operation Metro Surge began, with ICE publicly confirming more than 400 arrests as some outlets report higher unverified totals.
- Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis–St. Paul leaders criticized the operation’s transparency and tactics, citing reports of plate swapping and ride-share decals used to mask agents’ identities.
- State and city officials say at least two U.S. citizens were detained, and civil-rights litigation and oversight efforts have expanded in response to alleged violations.
- Community effects intensified over the holiday period, with residents scaling back gatherings and businesses reporting slower traffic as families avoid public outings.
- Recent flashpoints include a DHS-confirmed incident in St. Paul where an officer fired after being struck by a vehicle, and a viral TikTok by Hope Walz sending support to neighbors she said ICE has been terrorizing.