AP source reports on federal operation targeting Somali immigrants in Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Federal authorities are planning a focused immigration enforcement initiative in Minnesota, aimed mainly at Somali immigrants residing in the U.S. without legal status, according to a source familiar with the plans. This move follows President Donald Trump's renewed criticism on Tuesday of Minnesota's large Somali population, claiming he does not want immigrants from Somalia in the country because they contribute nothing.

The operation could be launched within the next few days and is expected to concentrate on the MinneapolisSt. Paul metropolitan area, targeting individuals with final deportation orders. Immigration agents would conduct a directed, high-priority sweep across the Twin Cities, though the plans could change, the source noted.

The potential crackdown is likely to intensify tensions in Minnesota, which is home to the nations largest Somali population. Somali immigrants began arriving in the state during the 1990s to escape civil war, attracted by Minnesota's social programs. According to the 2024 American Community Survey, approximately 260,000 people of Somali descent reside in the U.S., with about 84,000 in the Minneapolis area, most of whom are U.S. citizens. Other states with significant Somali populations include Ohio, Washington, and California.

President Trump has increasingly criticized Somali immigrants, claiming they have caused a lot of trouble. Community leaders argue that his statements have heightened fears of profiling. During a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Trump criticized Somali immigrants as overly dependent on social programs and said they add little value to the country.

Local Response

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey rejected Trumps characterization of Somali residents, stating it violates the moral fabric of what we stand for as Americans. He emphasized the contributions of the Somali community, noting they have started businesses, created jobs, and enriched the citys cultural life.

The mayor confirmed that Minneapolis police officers, many of whom are Somali, will not participate in federal immigration enforcement operations. Targeting Somali people risks violating due process, making mistakes, and detaining American citizens simply for appearing Somali. That is unacceptable, Frey said.

Hundreds are expected to be targeted in the operation, though incidental arrests of individuals not specifically targeted but lacking legal status are possible. The source spoke anonymously to discuss plans not publicly disclosed. The New York Times first reported the enforcement plans.

Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said the agency would not comment on potential operations, emphasizing that targets are determined by immigration status, not race or ethnicity.

Trump and administration officials have intensified rhetoric against Somali immigrants following reports alleging diverted government funds from fraudulent programs to the Somali militant group al-Shabab. Last month, Trump announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Somali migrants in Minnesota, a measure that shields certain immigrants from deportation. Congressional reports indicate just 705 Somalis nationwide were under this program.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz criticized the administrations approach, saying those committing fraud should be prosecuted but condemning efforts that demonize the entire community. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced an investigation into claims of diverted tax dollars.

Community Perspective

Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, noted that fewer than a dozen immigration arrests have occurred recently within the Somali community. About 95% of Somalis in Minnesota are U.S. citizens, with roughly half born in the U.S. Hussein described the reported enforcement as politically motivated and as an additional pressure on immigrant communities.

Minneapolis City Council member Jamal Osman, who is Somali American, affirmed the citys support for its immigrant population. Our community has lived through fear before, and we will not allow ourselves to be divided, he said.

Associated Press journalists Rebecca Santana, Michael Schneider, and John Seewer contributed to this report.

Author: Sophia Brooks