Maine Faces Federal Immigration Crackdown: The ICE Maine Operation Begins
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has launched a significant initiative, the ICE Maine Operation, named “Operation Catch of the Day.” This new initiative sent deportation agents to Maine, beginning Tuesday, January 21, 2026. Federal authorities confirmed this action as part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy, focusing on individuals deemed criminal. The ICE Maine Operation targets communities across Maine, aiming to remove specific individuals with criminal histories. ICE stated they are “the worst of the worst,” claiming these individuals “terrorize communities” and highlighting the importance of the ICE Maine Operation for public safety.
Targeting Criminal Aliens in the ICE Maine Operation
ICE officers arrested individuals with criminal records during the ICE Maine Operation. The operation identified targets from several nations, including Angola, Ethiopia, Guatemala, and Sudan. Somali immigrants are also reportedly among those targeted by this federal immigration action. This news comes as reports surface of specific arrests related to the ICE Maine Operation. For example, Dominic Ali from Sudan was arrested, facing convictions for false imprisonment and assault. Ambessa Berhe from Ethiopia was arrested with convictions for aggravated assault. Elmara Correia from Angola faced arrest, previously arrested for child endangerment. Dany Lopez-Cortez from Guatemala was convicted for operating under the influence, all part of the ongoing ICE Maine Operation.
Official Justification and Political Framing of the ICE Maine Operation
DHS officials defended the ICE Maine Operation, stating it targets those in the U.S. illegally who have also committed crimes. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized state leaders, singling out Maine Governor Janet Mills. McLaughlin accused Mills and others of being “sanctuary politicians,” claiming they prioritize immigrants over citizens. This rhetoric frames the ICE Maine Operation politically, pitting federal policy against state leadership. However, some officials noted a lack of federal coordination. Governor Mills stated she sought confirmation of federal activity and felt a lack of cooperation, creating local anxiety. The administration’s approach to immigration enforcement, particularly this ICE Maine Operation, draws sharp critique.
Scale and Initial Arrests in the ICE Maine Operation
ICE identified a large number of potential targets for the ICE Maine Operation, noting nearly 1,400 individuals in Maine whom ICE aimed to detain. The operation began with initial arrests, with Fox News reporting about 50 arrests quickly as of early Wednesday morning. ICE Deputy Assistant Director Patricia Hyde provided these figures. The agency stated they would continue their work, intending to arrest everyone on their list, signaling a sustained immigration enforcement effort that significantly impacts immigrant communities through this ICE Maine Operation.
Community Reactions and Concerns Regarding the ICE Maine Operation
Local officials voiced strong opposition to the ICE Maine Operation. Portland Mayor Mark Dion expressed fear and noted the community’s anxiety. Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline condemned the raids, calling them a “lack of humanity” and stating masked agents caused “long-term damage.” Many residents reported detentions, with some claiming individuals lacked criminal records, contradicting ICE’s stated targeting for the ICE Maine Operation. One case highlights these concerns: Yanick Joao Carneiro, an Angolan man, was detained, and his lawyer stated he has no criminal record. A federal judge ordered ICE to explain this detention. Such reports fuel criticism of the ICE Maine Operation, questioning ICE’s methods and targets. The news of these ICE arrests and the overall ICE Maine Operation spread quickly.
Broader Context and Policy of the ICE Maine Operation
This ICE Maine Operation aligns with broader trends reflecting the Trump administration’s stance. President Trump often used harsh rhetoric, specifically targeting Somali immigrants and making derogatory comments about them. This enforcement action appears consistent with that immigration policy. Maine recently enacted new laws limiting police cooperation with ICE. However, federal agents proceeded with their operation, challenging the state’s efforts to control local enforcement. This news highlights ongoing federal-state tensions concerning immigration enforcement and the scope of the ICE Maine Operation.
Conclusion on the ICE Maine Operation
“Operation Catch of the Day,” the extensive ICE Maine Operation, brought intense federal scrutiny to the state. It spotlights federal immigration enforcement priorities and has ignited local resistance. The ICE news signals continued aggressive actions that create fear and division, challenging state and local autonomy. The impact of the ICE Maine Operation on Maine’s diverse communities remains a major concern. This immigration news and the developments surrounding the ICE Maine Operation will likely continue to unfold.
