NYC Immigration Raids Spark Fear and Outrage in Bronx

Early Tuesday morning, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted raids in the Highbridge section of the Bronx, leading to the arrest of at least one undocumented individual. This action, part of a larger Trump administration effort to increase deportations, surprised residents and business owners.

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-01/250128-bronx-immigration-mn-1551-789ee1.jpg" alt="The Highbridge neighborhood in Bronx, N.Y." >

Resident Reactions

Many residents expressed surprise and concern. While acknowledging the high crime rate in the area, they worried about the potential for innocent people to be arrested. One business owner stated, "I think it's OK if they need to arrest somebody because they committed a crime, but I worry that with ICE, they may also arrest others that haven't done anything bad." The fear extended to children, with one young girl expressing fear of the police.

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-01/250128-bronx-immigration-mn-1550-ff40be.jpg" alt="Several business owners in the Bronx said that they rarely see immigration arrests and that they are more concerned with crime." >

Official Statements

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the operation on social media, stating that the arrested individual was wanted for serious crimes. Mayor Eric Adams affirmed the city's cooperation with federal authorities in bringing violent criminals to justice while reiterating the city's commitment to protecting all residents.

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-01/250128-kristi-noem-new-york-immigration-mn-1540-613f81.jpg" alt="U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem speaks with federal law enforcement members in New York on Jan. 28, 2025." >

Criticism and Concerns

The New York Immigration Coalition condemned the raids, calling them a "publicity blitz" aimed at instilling fear in immigrant communities. Concerns were also raised about recent statistics showing that approximately half of those arrested by ICE lack criminal records.

Impact on Immigrant Communities

The raids have created significant anxiety among New York City's large immigrant population, particularly among recent arrivals seeking shelter in locations like the Roosevelt Hotel.