In a stunning display of federal immigration enforcement, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has launched an unprecedented wave of mass deportations, targeting some of the nation’s most dangerous criminals. The latest footage shows ICE agents conducting nationwide raids, capturing gang leaders and violent offenders, and deporting them on U.S. military aircraft—a move that has sparked intense debate across the country.
Largest Single-Day ICE Raid in U.S. History
On Sunday, January 29, 2025, ICE carried out what is now being called the largest single-day immigration raid under the Trump Administration, arresting over 956 individuals across multiple cities. Many of those apprehended are alleged members of notorious international crime syndicates, including the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.
Gang Leaders and Criminals Targeted
Among those arrested was Anderson Zano Pacho, a fugitive linked to kidnapping, assault, and burglary charges in Colorado. ICE agents located him in the Bronx, New York, where he was hiding. Authorities say he played a role in a high-profile armed takeover of an apartment complex in Aurora, Colorado, which sent shockwaves through the community.
Additionally, two Mexican nationals were taken into custody in separate raids. One was wanted for three counts of rape and sexual assault, while the other had prior attempted murder charges. The swift and aggressive action by federal authorities has been met with both support and criticism.
U.S. Military Planes Used for Deportations
In a historic move, deportation flights are now being conducted using U.S. military aircraft, an operation that significantly increases the speed and efficiency of removals. A C-17 military plane was seen transporting 80 deportees back to Ecuador from El Paso, Texas. This strategy, which utilizes Air Force assets, has expedited deportations, sending individuals back to their home countries within as little as seven hours.
White House Signals Aggressive Immigration Crackdown
President Trump has doubled down on his immigration enforcement policy, stating that his administration is executing the largest mass deportation effort in U.S. history. The President’s approach includes:
- Expanding ICE raids nationwide, with a goal of making between 15,000 and 18,000 arrests daily.
- Targeting violent criminals and gang members who entered the U.S. illegally.
- Threatening diplomatic action against countries that refuse to accept deportees.
Countries Refusing to Accept Deportees Face Consequences
While Ecuador, Guatemala, and El Salvador have cooperated with the U.S. on deportations, Colombia initially refused to accept a flight of deportees—prompting President Trump to threaten economic sanctions. The Colombian government quickly reversed its stance, setting a precedent for other nations considering resistance.
New Executive Order Revokes Protection for Venezuelan Migrants
In another major development, newly appointed DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has revoked the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan migrants, a directive originally extended by former DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The move effectively removes protected status for over 67,000 Venezuelans, leaving them vulnerable to deportation.
“The people of this country want these criminals out. They want their communities safe again,” Noem stated while joining ICE agents on the ground during the New York City raids.
Public Reaction: Cheers and Concerns
The reaction to these aggressive enforcement measures has been deeply polarized. In communities affected by gang violence, many residents have welcomed the raids, citing a renewed sense of safety. The New York Post even reported that minority communities in NYC were celebrating the ICE raids, with one local woman quoted as saying:
“Get them the hell off the street.”
However, immigrant rights groups and Democratic leaders have condemned the crackdown, calling it “performative theater” and warning that the mass arrests could have unintended consequences. Some officials have also questioned whether lesser-offense undocumented immigrants may become collateral damage in this sweeping initiative.
What’s Next?
With the Trump Administration ramping up deportations, experts believe that even more aggressive policies could be on the horizon. Already, discussions are underway about deporting visa-holding students involved in anti-Israel and anti-American protests, with Trump stating:
“If you are in this country on a visa and engage in anti-American activities, pack your bags—you’re next.”
As ICE continues its nationwide crackdown, the political and humanitarian implications of this historic enforcement action will be felt for years to come.
