Minneapolis immigration operation declared successful by Border Czar Tom Homan, set to end

Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis is concluding after federal officials declare it successful. The initiative, led by Tom Homan, aimed to strengthen local security and met its objectives despite protests and opposition, with a reduced federal presence remaining for final tasks.

Tom Homan, the former national border czar under the Trump administration, confirmed on Thursday that Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis is nearing completion. He stated that the federal initiative met its intended goals despite facing substantial opposition from local officials and public demonstrations.

Operation Details and Timeline

Homan provided the update during a morning press conference, emphasizing that the Twin Cities and the state of Minnesota would experience enhanced security as a result of the federal operation. Homan’s announcement came roughly two weeks after his arrival in Minnesota to supervise the effort, which had grown larger than initially anticipated. The operation involved deploying thousands of immigration officers to the region, a move that provoked criticism from local Democratic leaders and led to mass protests in several communities.

Notable Incidents During Operation Metro Surge

• Three shooting incidents occurred, resulting in two deaths.
• Allegations of racial profiling, including requests for proof of legal residency.
• Detention of individuals with legal status and transportation across state lines, including minors.
• Multiple traffic accidents associated with enforcement activities.
• Use of chemical irritants on the grounds of public schools.
• Property damage to vehicles of observers, followed by arrests without formal charges.
• Intimidation of journalists filming public activity from a distance.

Personnel Transition and Federal Drawdown

Homan indicated that a small number of federal personnel will remain temporarily to facilitate the transition of operational control back to the local field office. The reduction began last week, with approximately 700 immigration agents leaving Minnesota. The drawdown is part of a larger plan to scale back federal presence after establishing cooperation with local law enforcement and observing a reduction in disruptive incidents linked to immigration enforcement.

Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement

Local sheriff’s offices continue to inform ICE when individuals of interest are released from jails, a practice maintained for many years. Homan clarified that sheriffs are not being instructed to hold individuals beyond their scheduled release dates, which would contravene Minnesota law according to a 2025 opinion from Attorney General Keith Ellison.

Background on Federal Deployment

The federal presence in Minnesota began under the Trump administration in late 2025. At its height, Operation Metro Surge included roughly 3,000 personnel and was described by the Department of Homeland Security as the largest operation of its kind to date. Homan attributed reductions in local disturbances and improvements in coordination with local law enforcement to the federal teams’ efforts.

Ongoing Investigations

Homan noted that some federal staff involved in continuing fraud investigations will remain in the area. He is also reportedly under investigation for allegedly accepting $50,000 from an undercover FBI agent in 2024 in a possible bribery case. The announcement marks the formal end of Operation Metro Surge while maintaining a limited federal presence to finalize administrative tasks and continue investigations.

Sources:

• Trump administration to end Minnesota immigration crackdown
• Homan announces Operation Metro Surge to conclude in Minnesota
• Border czar Tom Homan says Minnesota immigration surge is ending
• Border Czar Tom Homan announces end to Minneapolis immigration operation, claiming success