More than 1,000 ICE agents leave Minnesota as “Operation Metro Surge” concludes
MINNEAPOLIS — The Trump administration has begun the withdrawal of more than 1,000 federal immigration agents from Minnesota, marking the end of a controversial two-month enforcement campaign known as “Operation Metro Surge.” White House border czar Tom Homan confirmed the drawdown on Thursday, stating that the massive deployment of personnel to the Twin Cities had achieved its objectives and that federal forces would return to their “original footprint” in the region.
The operation, which began in December, saw the deployment of approximately 3,000 agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The surge resulted in more than 4,000 arrests, a figure Homan cited as evidence of the mission’s success. “As a result of our efforts here, Minnesota is now less of a sanctuary state for criminals,” Homan told reporters during a press conference in Minneapolis.
However, the crackdown sparked intense local backlash and widespread civil unrest following the deaths of two U.S. citizens during interactions with federal agents. Renee Good, 37, and Alex Pretti, also 37, were fatally shot in separate incidents in January, leading to weeks of protests and clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. The incidents drew sharp criticism from state and local officials, who described the federal presence as an “occupation.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat who has frequently clashed with the administration over the operation, expressed cautious relief at the announcement but emphasized the long-term impact on the state. “You don’t get to break things and then just leave without doing something about it,” Walz said, noting that he is seeking federal aid to support businesses and communities affected by the disruption. Mayor Jacob Frey of Minneapolis echoed these sentiments, stating that while the withdrawal is a necessary step, the city faces a significant period of recovery.
While the majority of the surge force is departing, officials noted that a “small” security contingent will remain in the area temporarily to finalize ongoing investigations and ensure the safety of remaining personnel. Homan did not provide a specific timeline for the complete removal of all surge resources but indicated the process is already well underway.
The conclusion of Operation Metro Surge comes as the Department of Homeland Security faces potential funding battles in Congress, with some lawmakers citing the events in Minnesota as a primary reason to demand greater oversight of ICE tactics. Despite the withdrawal, federal officials maintained that standard immigration enforcement operations in the state would continue.
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