PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Trump administration is intensifying its immigration enforcement efforts in Maine with the new operation named “Catch of the Day,” which aims to target around 1,000 residents in immigrant communities where the population is predominantly refugees, especially from Africa.
The initiative has raised significant alarm in Portland and Lewiston, cities noted for their sizable African communities, particularly Somali immigrants. The public reports of immigration arrests triggered protests and heated responses from local officials.
Governor Janet Mills and other Democrats have condemned the operation, refusing to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in obtaining undercover license plates for unmarked vehicles, fearing the implications of such requests. During a recent address, Mills stated that aggressive enforcement actions that infringe upon civil rights are counterproductive and unwelcome in the state.
Local leaders, including Portland City Council member Pious Ali, expressed deep concerns over the operation’s impact on community dynamics, noting that many immigrants now refrain from attending work or school due to the intimidation brought on by ICE’s presence.
“Our schools have seen about a quarter of immigrants not showing up,” Ali said, emphasizing the role that immigrants play in essential services in the community. “There are immigrants who work in our hospitals, schools, and hotels, constituting vital segments of our local economy.”
As the operation unfolds, reports indicated that ICE agents claimed to have made around 50 arrests on the operation's first day, targeting individuals convicted of various serious crimes. However, advocates argue that the crackdown has fueled anxiety rather than enhancing public safety.
Describing the heightened tensions, Portland Mayor Mark Dion remarked, “There is no evidence of unchecked criminal activity in our community that justifies the heavy federal presence. Instead, it’s the community that suffers the fear and uncertainty.”
Maine's educational institutions have reacted with precaution, conducting safety lockouts due to concerns over potential ICE activity. Portland Public Schools confirmed they briefly restricted access to two schools, although they quickly determined there was no immediate threat, reflecting the tense atmosphere designed to protect students amidst rising fears.
As this operation unfolds and scrutiny rises, officials both for and against the operation are calling for peaceful and civil responses from the community, highlighting the complexity and varying opinions surrounding immigration enforcement in the state.
