As 2026 begins, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has intensified its efforts to detain immigrants, primarily targeting those labeled as "the worst illegal foreign criminals," including Cuban nationals with serious criminal backgrounds.
In the past few days, three individuals from Cuba were arrested and listed under the "Worst of the Worst" initiative by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This campaign aims to identify, apprehend, and deport foreign nationals with irregular status who have committed crimes in the United States, posing a "threat to public safety," according to officials.
Yusney Figueroa Argüelles, a Cuban national previously convicted of armed robbery in Orlando, Florida, was taken into custody by ICE agents during operations conducted between New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, as per a DHS statement.
Duniesky Eugenio Delgado Gazo, convicted of aggravated assault in Pensacola, Florida, was arrested on January 5th. Meanwhile, David Llama López, found guilty of human trafficking in Miami, was detained by ICE on Tuesday. The DHS confirmed that all three are set to be processed for deportation from the U.S.
In line with President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda, ICE has bolstered its workforce by recruiting over 12,000 additional agents, marking a 120% increase in personnel. This expansion aims to significantly ramp up the detention and deportation of immigrants during a politically crucial year.
The recent arrests of Cuban immigrants at the start of the new year reflect the ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration spearheaded by the DHS and its affiliated federal agencies, including ICE and CBP (Customs and Border Protection), in collaboration with state and local law enforcement.
More than 1,150 Cuban nationals were apprehended by ICE in the federal "Worst of the Worst" campaign during 2025.
Amid reports suggesting a potential shift in the Trump administration's immigration policy, the DHS reiterated at the end of the year that agencies will continue to "intensify enforcement efforts."
The Trump administration has further escalated its aggressive campaign against immigration, targeting not only the arrest and deportation of foreign criminals but also individuals at various stages of their immigration processes who have not committed crimes.
A recent Harvard CAPS-Harris Poll revealed that a significant majority of Americans support the deportation of immigrants illegally residing in the country with criminal records.
According to the poll, 80% of respondents favored the removal of undocumented immigrants who have broken the law, while only 20% opposed.
Understanding ICE's Recent Actions Against Cuban Immigrants
Why is ICE targeting Cuban immigrants with criminal records?
ICE is focusing on Cuban immigrants with criminal records as part of its broader campaign to enhance public safety by deporting individuals considered threats due to their criminal activities.
How has ICE increased its capacity to detain immigrants?
ICE has expanded its workforce by recruiting over 12,000 additional agents, which represents a 120% increase, enabling the agency to more effectively carry out detentions and deportations.
What is the public opinion on deporting immigrants with criminal records?
A recent poll indicates that 80% of Americans support deporting immigrants who are in the country illegally and have criminal records, while only 20% are opposed to this measure.