Recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in New Jersey have led to growing concerns among local residents, advocacy groups, and public officials.

The presence of ICE agents has triggered fear and uncertainty, especially within immigrant communities. Reports of arrests and detainments have been circulating, raising questions about the enforcement tactics being used and their impact on families and communities.

ICE Raids at Ocean Seafood Depot

On January 23, 2025, ICE agents conducted an operation at Ocean Seafood Depot in Newark’s Ironbound district. According to witnesses, several individuals were detained, including both undocumented residents and U.S. citizens. Among those held was a U.S. military veteran whose military documentation was reportedly questioned by ICE officials.

The operation caused significant distress, with bystanders and employees expressing concern over the way ICE conducted the raid. Witnesses reported that the agents arrived without warning, rounding up individuals based on their appearance and suspected immigration status. This has led to widespread fears that similar raids may occur in other parts of the state, affecting more families and communities.

Mayor Baraka Condemns the Raid

Following the raid, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka strongly criticized ICE’s actions, stating that the agents acted without presenting a warrant. He emphasized that such operations violate the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures.

“We cannot allow our residents to live in fear due to aggressive and unlawful enforcement actions,” Mayor Baraka said in a statement. “Newark is a city that stands by its people, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that their rights are protected.”

Mayor Baraka also reaffirmed Newark’s commitment to being a welcoming city for immigrants, regardless of their status. He urged federal authorities to respect legal processes and follow proper procedures when conducting operations.

Fear and Confusion in the Community

The ICE operations have left many residents feeling anxious and uncertain about their safety. Community members have reported avoiding public places, skipping work, and even refraining from sending their children to school out of fear of encountering immigration officers.

“There’s people that don’t want to go to work or buy groceries because they’re afraid of running into ICE agents,” said Frank, an undocumented resident of New Jersey who spoke through an interpreter. “Like in my neighborhood, no one has documents. People are scared.”

The anxiety has been worsened by social media reports of ICE sightings in various parts of New Jersey. However, many of these reports lack verification, leading to confusion and unnecessary panic.

Advocacy Groups Call for Action

Immigrant advocacy organizations across New Jersey have been working to provide support and accurate information to affected communities. Many groups are urging people to verify ICE sightings before sharing them online to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Dante Apaéstegui, the community response coordinator at the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, emphasized the need for clear and factual communication.

“We’re talking to community members to be very alert about what they’re sharing so that we’re spreading information, not panic,” Apaéstegui said.

Advocacy groups have also been conducting “Know Your Rights” workshops to educate people about their legal protections when interacting with immigration officials. These workshops cover Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendment rights and provide guidance on how to respond if ICE agents show up at their homes or workplaces.

Uncertain Future

The recent ICE actions in New Jersey are part of a broader national crackdown on immigration enforcement. Officials have confirmed an increase in operations, particularly targeting individuals with prior deportation orders or criminal records. However, community leaders argue that many law-abiding residents are also being caught up in these raids, leading to unnecessary fear and hardship.

As tensions rise, many are calling on state and federal lawmakers to intervene and establish clearer guidelines for immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, affected communities continue to seek ways to protect themselves and their families from unexpected ICE actions.

For now, uncertainty remains, and many residents are left wondering when and where the next operation might take place. The situation continues to evolve, with advocacy groups and public officials closely monitoring developments.