ICE Agents in Minnesota Avoid Interacting with Protesters

Published on January 29, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE) conduct an operation in Minnesota, while protesters observe from a safe distance.

ICE Agents in Minnesota Avoid Interacting with Protesters

A new operational directive instructs Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Minnesota not to engage with people protesting during their interventions. The policy seeks to reorient the focus toward specific individuals with criminal histories, moving away from large-scale raids. 🚨

Focus on Priority Targets

The internal document, revealed by Reuters agency, orders agents to concentrate their efforts solely on immigrants with criminal charges or convictions. This measure responds to a climate of heightened tensions following incidents where two citizens died in protests in Minneapolis. By limiting the scope, ICE aims to reduce its public profile and evade the numerous legal issues arising from broader actions.

Main instructions of the directive:
  • Completely ignore those who attempt to confront the agents or record the procedures.
  • Avoid any interaction with provocateurs or individuals labeled as agitators.
  • Prioritize the detention of individuals with confirmed criminal backgrounds.
Perhaps the quietest procedure manual they've drafted, where dialogue is equated to an infraction.

Communication Reduced to a Minimum

The protocol is very specific about how to exchange information with the public. Only direct orders and operational instructions are permitted. Debating, justifying actions, or responding to questions from those present is explicitly prohibited. 🎯

Objectives of the communication protocol:
  • Maintain absolute control of the situation during operations.
  • Minimize the risk of situations escalating or becoming violent.
  • Avoid verbal interactions being used against them in media or judicial proceedings.

Consequences of the New Approach

This policy represents a tactical shift to manage the high-tension environment. By avoiding dialogue and mass raids, the agency seeks to carry out its work with less visible opposition and less material that could complicate its legal position. The success of this strategy in calming tempers and meeting its institutional objectives remains to be seen. ⚖️