False Rumors of Minneapolis ICE Raid Spark Protest; Police Denounce ‘Irresponsible’ Information from Elected Officials

A chaotic scene erupted in Minneapolis this week as a federal criminal investigation devolved into a violent confrontation between protesters and law enforcement, triggering a heated debate over the accuracy of information shared by elected officials and the role of various agencies on city streets.

The situation unfolded Tuesday outside a popular Mexican restaurant, where federal agents were executing a search warrant connected to allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering. As heavily armed officers from several agencies converged on the location, frustrated demonstrators gathered, believing the operation was tied to immigration enforcement. The confusion stemmed from statements posted online by public officials, including State Senator Omar Fateh, who alleged on social media that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was carrying out a raid.

Tensions escalated rapidly. Video footage captured protesters shouting at agents, with some incidents turning physical—one clip showed a masked agent in ATF markings forcefully pushing a demonstrator aside as law enforcement attempted to leave the area. Some federal officers, visibly agitated, were seen in close, heated exchanges with members of the crowd. Throughout the standoff, objects were reportedly thrown at agents, further raising the stakes in an already volatile scene.

In the aftermath, Minneapolis officials sought to clarify the facts. Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized that "the operation was related to a criminal search warrant for drugs and money laundering and was not related to immigration enforcement," highlighting that no arrests were made during the warrant's execution. Authorities expressed frustration over misinformation that quickly spread online, with Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt criticizing elected leaders for sharing unverified details. "The information that came out on social media from elected officials was highly irresponsible," Witt said. "They have a responsibility to put out accurate information… not mislead the public, causing more harm to our communities."

Police Chief Brian O'Hara echoed the concerns about both the escalation and its aftermath, warning of long-term damage to trust and community safety. "Aside from just the verbal things that were being said, but with things being thrown at them—in some cases, heavily-armed federal agents getting into hand-to-hand situations with people who are protesting—is not good," he remarked. O'Hara stressed that, ultimately, if tragedy had struck, "we all lose, and we are left behind." The chief underscored the local police department's challenge, as federal agencies can depart after an incident, leaving city authorities and neighborhoods to deal with the consequences.

The controversy has reignited longstanding distrust toward federal operations in Minneapolis, with Mayor Frey stating that the climate of fear and suspicion is "understandable" given the national political environment. The mayor pointed out that, due to past rhetoric and enforcement crackdowns, many residents are already on edge. Meanwhile, ICE and Homeland Security officials maintained the operation was part of a broader, collaborative initiative targeting organized crime, not immigration status violations. Jamie Holt, ICE Homeland Security Investigations special agent in charge for St. Paul, described the effort as a "groundbreaking criminal operation" and lauded the collaboration among state and federal partners.

Sheriff Witt called for an internal review of the day's events, pledging to meet with federal leaders to address concerns over tactics and communication. "It did not look good—I get that—and we will deal with some of the things that happened that even I don't agree with," she stated. Yet, she also condemned attempts to block law enforcement efforts, insisting "it is not okay for people to obstruct law enforcement when we are trying to obtain evidence."

As Minneapolis officials grapple with the fallout, the incident has sparked debate over the responsibilities of elected officials, the importance of transparency, and how future operations can avoid similar confrontations. The city now faces calls for clearer communication protocols and improved trust between law enforcement and the diverse communities they serve.