In a series of enforcement actions, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out operations across various locations in Miami-Dade County, with a significant focus on Little Havana.
Over the past two days, social media has been flooded with videos showing men in handcuffs, dark vehicles with flashing lights, and uniformed officers inspecting documents.
"Officers from the Florida Highway Patrol and federal agencies conducted random traffic stops and detained workers from various trades, including a Nicaraguan seeking asylum," reported Telemundo.
In several videos, locals voiced their discontent to ICE agents, exclaiming, "These are people who are working."
Eyewitness accounts describe the presence of federal vehicles and Florida Highway Patrol officers in areas such as Little Havana, Coral Gables, Hialeah, Doral, and Miami Beach.
"You can't even go out in Little Havana. There are Border Patrol cars everywhere; I haven't left my house in two days," shared one resident.
Witnesses reported that agents had detained laborers, gardeners, and construction workers.
These actions are part of a more aggressive federal policy under the Trump Administration, which has intensified its pursuit of immigrants with criminal records but has also faced criticism for arresting workers without criminal backgrounds.
On the iconic Calle Ocho in Little Havana, the subject is a hot topic in restaurants and bodegas.
"Everyone knows someone who could be arrested," remarked a Cuban resident of the area.
Immigrant advocacy organizations, such as Americans for Immigrant Justice and the Florida Immigrant Coalition, have called on ICE to clarify the nature of these operations and to uphold due process for those in asylum proceedings or status adjustment.
Key Concerns Regarding ICE Raids in Miami
What areas were most affected by the ICE operations?
The operations primarily targeted Little Havana, but also extended to Coral Gables, Hialeah, Doral, and Miami Beach.
Who were the primary targets of these ICE raids?
The raids focused on workers from various trades, including laborers, gardeners, and construction workers, regardless of their criminal history.
How have local communities reacted to the ICE actions?
Residents have expressed frustration and concern, emphasizing that those detained are hardworking individuals. The topic is widely discussed in local establishments.