Not a citizen: Trump authorizes immigration officials to raid schools and hospitals to search for illegal immigrants
On Tuesday (Jan. 21), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Trump has authorized law enforcement officials to apprehend illegal immigrants in sensitive locations such as schools, churches, and hospitals.
"Border Czar" Tom Homan stated that enforcement actions will begin immediately across the nation. Several immigrant rights organizations have expressed concerns that these raids could instill fear within immigrant communities, leading parents to hesitate in sending their children to school or seeking medical care.
According to the Associated Press, enforcement agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have traditionally avoided making arrests in schools and other sensitive areas for humanitarian reasons. However, the latest DHS statement claims that these limitations are no longer in effect, asserting that criminals can no longer hide in America's schools and churches to avoid capture. The Trump administration emphasizes that it will not restrict law enforcement and trusts their judgment in making decisions.
Homan did not disclose specific locations for the initial enforcement actions but confirmed that they would occur nationwide. Many schools have reported receiving calls from anxious parents concerned about rumors of ICE raids targeting students or parents identified as illegal immigrants. Some parents are even considering keeping their children at home temporarily.
A think tank has warned that these actions could have devastating consequences for immigrant families and their children, including those who are U.S. citizens, affecting their access to education, healthcare, and daily life.
A memorandum obtained by The Washington Post indicates that the U.S. Justice Department instructed federal prosecutors to investigate or even prosecute any state or local officials who obstruct immigration enforcement.
Related News:
Trump announces US$500 bn investment from three companies for AI infrastructure development
Comment