ICE Confirms Immigration Raids Under New Executive Order in USVI and Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed on Sunday that immigration enforcement raids are currently underway in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and Puerto Rico (PR). The operations follow President Donald Trump’s January 20, 2025, executive order titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.”
The executive order emphasizes stricter immigration measures to address what the administration describes as an influx of undocumented individuals entering U.S. territories. ICE officials have stated that the raids target individuals without legal status, including those with outstanding removal orders or suspected involvement in criminal activities.
“These operations are designed to uphold the rule of law and protect communities,” an ICE spokesperson said. “We are focusing on apprehending those who pose threats to public safety while enforcing federal immigration laws.”







Scenes of Raids in Puerto Rico
Images from Puerto Rico show heavily armed ICE agents conducting early-morning raids in several areas, including San Juan and Ponce. Video footage shared online depicts officers entering residential neighborhoods and detaining individuals. Families were seen gathering belongings as agents transported individuals to processing facilities.
Community Concerns
The raids have sparked mixed reactions across the territories. Advocacy groups and local leaders have expressed concerns about the potential for family separations and the impact on vulnerable communities.
“We urge the administration to approach these operations with compassion and transparency,” said Carolina Soto, a community leader in San Juan. “This has left many families living in fear.”
Supporters of the executive order, however, have praised the administration for prioritizing national security and enforcing immigration laws.
The raids in the USVI and Puerto Rico come amid heightened debates about immigration reform and territorial rights. The full scope and timeline of the operations remain unclear, with ICE stating that updates will be provided as enforcement actions continue.
Further information on the affected individuals and specific regions targeted is expected in the coming days.

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