The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that federal immigration authorities have arrested more than 10,000 individuals in Los Angeles since June 2025 as part of an ongoing enforcement operation led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to DHS, those taken into custody include individuals previously convicted of crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, sexual assault, and armed robbery. The department described the initiative as a crackdown targeting undocumented immigrants with serious criminal convictions.
In a statement, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the arrests occurred despite what she described as opposition from local officials and protests aimed at obstructing law enforcement operations. McLaughlin criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for their handling of immigration-related issues and policies that limit cooperation with federal authorities.
Among those arrested, DHS listed several individuals with criminal convictions ranging from sexual offenses and homicide to drug and weapons-related crimes. Cases highlighted by the department include convictions for aggravated assault, kidnapping, fraud, and carjacking involving nationals from countries including Mexico, Iran, Armenia, Cuba, and Kenya.
The department characterized Los Angeles as a “sanctuary jurisdiction” where local policies limit collaboration with federal immigration enforcement. DHS said that, despite these restrictions, the multi-month operation will continue as part of its broader effort to remove individuals who pose public safety risks. California officials have not yet issued a response to DHS’s statement.
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.
