AUSTIN, Texas — President Donald Trump is making good on his campaign promise to carry out mass deportations across the country and here in Texas.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials conducted target enforcement operations across Austin on Sunday alongside the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The DEA Houston division shared photos of the efforts. However, despite multiple requests to ask federal agencies how many people were arrested and detained in Austin, or what crimes they may have been suspected of, no response has been received.
DACA recipient and executive director at nonprofit MOVE Texas, Claudia Yoli Ferla, said although she is protected from deportation, there is a level of fear regarding who ICE is targeting with its operations.
“No immigrants, whether we be documented or undocumented, are safe under Trump’s administration,” Ferla said. “Trump has claimed that his policies only target … criminals, but the reality is that no immigrant is safe under this administration.”
Ferla was born in Venezuela and said the recent raids have only made her recommit her purpose to helping those who find themselves in the face of an ICE or a Border Patrol Agent.
“I am not afraid. If anything, I think I am recommitted in my purpose to continuing organizing for the humanity, the safety and the dignity of immigrants across Texas and in turn, across this country,” Ferla said.
Advocates with the advocacy group MANO AMIGA said they are working with families and people who contact them to ensure they know their rights. The organization noted earlier this month that they worked with families to create a “Family Preparedness plan” in case they are detained.
Meanwhile, the Austin Police Department released the following statement about the ongoing immigration enforcement operations:
“The Austin Police Department will continue to collaborate with our federal partners to address violent crime in the City of Austin.
APD’s focus has been and will continue to be on fostering community trust, preventing victimization, and addressing quality of life issues. Our mission is to ensure the safety and well-being of all Austinites regardless of their background or immigration status.
We are focused on investigating criminal activity and securing justice for victims to create a safer Austin for everyone.”