Former ICE Director Tom Homan calls for sanctuary cities to cooperate with federal authorities in combating the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, emphasizing the need for a united front against criminal elements.
At a Glance
- Tom Homan urges sanctuary cities to work with ICE to counter the Tren de Aragua gang
- ICE has arrested over 11,000 undocumented migrants in recent operations
- Homan criticizes operational leaks, stating they endanger officers and hinder arrests
- Plans to relocate dangerous gang members to Guantánamo Bay Detention Camp
- Warns of potential increased cartel violence at the southern border
Homan’s Call for Cooperation
Tom Homan, former ICE Director and Trump’s Border Czar, is making a strong push for sanctuary cities to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts. His primary focus is on combating the dangerous Venezuelan gang known as Tren de Aragua (TDA). Homan’s stance reflects a commitment to national security and the enforcement of immigration laws, even in the face of opposition from certain local jurisdictions.
In recent operations, ICE has made significant progress, arresting over 11,000 undocumented migrants. Homan emphasizes the importance of these efforts, particularly in targeting criminal elements like TDA. He has expressed frustration with sanctuary cities, arguing that their policies protect criminals and impede ICE operations.
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Concerns Over Operational Security
Homan has raised serious concerns about operational leaks that endanger ICE agents and compromise the effectiveness of their missions. He stresses the gravity of the situation, pointing out the potential for violence against law enforcement officers when operations are compromised.
“This isn’t a game. When operations get leaked like that, it puts our officers in danger. When they get a heads up we’re coming, it’s only a matter of time before officers are ambushed. The job’s dangerous enough,” Homan said.
The former ICE Director has pledged to hold those responsible for leaks accountable, emphasizing the need for operational security to ensure the safety of agents and the success of their missions.
Targeting Tren de Aragua
Homan’s strategy includes a strong focus on dismantling the Tren de Aragua gang. This Venezuelan criminal organization has become a priority target for ICE, with several members, including a ringleader, apprehended since the Trump administration took office.
“President Trump promised the American people that we’re going to concentrate on Tren de Aragua. They’re one of our priorities,” Homan said.
To address the threat posed by TDA and similar criminal organizations, the administration is considering relocating high-risk gang members to the Guantánamo Bay Detention Camp. This move aims to isolate dangerous individuals and prevent them from continuing their criminal activities within the United States.
Confronting Sanctuary Cities
Homan has taken a firm stance against sanctuary cities that obstruct ICE operations. He warns that these jurisdictions are hindering efforts to apprehend dangerous criminals and maintain public safety. Despite the challenges posed by uncooperative local governments, Homan remains resolute in his commitment to enforcing immigration laws.
The former ICE Director has stated that both ICE and the Department of Justice will work to hold sanctuary cities accountable if they interfere with federal immigration enforcement efforts. This approach reflects a determination to ensure that no area of the country becomes a safe haven for criminal elements, regardless of local policies.