Five-Year-Old Detained as Federal Agents Carry Out Immigration Sweep in Minneapolis

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Federal immigration authorities have confirmed the detention of a five-year-old boy during a large-scale enforcement operation in Minneapolis, drawing renewed attention to the scope and tactics of immigration raids in the United State.

The incident occurred as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers carried out a coordinated sweep in the Minnesota city, which has seen a major federal presence in recent weeks. Officials said the child was detained after his father attempted to evade the agents, prompting officers to take custody of the boy for safety and logistical reasons.

US Vice President JD Vance addressed the situation on Thursday, acknowledging initial concern upon learning that a young child had been detained. He explained that after reviewing the circumstances, he concluded the actions taken were consistent with standard procedure when a parent flees from immigration enforcement. Vance added that authorities were compelled to ensure the child’s wellbeing during the operation.

The family’s legal representatives have confirmed that the child and his father were transferred to federal custody in San Antonio, Texas. While they are not US citizens, the family reportedly submitted an application for asylum and were awaiting the outcome of their case in Minneapolis, a city known for its sanctuary status which limits local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Local officials have criticised the scale of the federal operation, describing the deployment of thousands of agents as excessive and disruptive to residents. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said the presence of federal forces has heightened tension in the city, and he described the situation as intimidating for communities affected by the sweep.

In response, federal authorities and the vice president argued that limited cooperation from local and state officials has complicated enforcement efforts and increased risks for officers. They also urged protesters to express their concerns peacefully, warning that unlawful actions during demonstrations would result in legal consequences.

Minnesota state authorities have moved to challenge the operation in court, filing for a temporary restraining order to pause the enforcement actions while the matter is reviewed. A hearing on the request is scheduled for next week, as the dispute continues to unfold amid broader national debates over immigration policy and enforcement methods.