The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expanded its immigration enforcement efforts by granting new authority to certain Department of Justice (DOJ) law enforcement agencies to investigate and apprehend undocumented immigrants.
The directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman, is part of the Trump administration’s commitment to ramping up deportations. It allows DOJ officials from the U.S. Marshals, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to actively participate in immigration enforcement operations.
“Thanks to the last Administration’s open border policies, we’ve seen violent criminals and gang members terrorize American communities,” said Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman. “Today’s action empowers law enforcement officials at the DOJ to help identify and apprehend aliens who have illegally come into our country. Mobilizing these law enforcement officials will help fulfill President Trump’s promise to the American people to carry out mass deportations.”
The expansion marks a significant shift in immigration enforcement, integrating agencies traditionally focused on criminal justice into DHS-led operations. The move is expected to lead to an increase in arrests and deportations, aligning with Trump’s broader immigration crackdown.
Immigrant rights groups have condemned the directive, warning that it could lead to increased racial profiling and the targeting of non-criminal immigrants. Legal challenges are expected as advocacy organizations push back against the policy.
The DHS directive signals the administration’s intent to intensify enforcement efforts as it seeks to deter illegal immigration and fulfill campaign promises on border security.
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Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
