Nearly 3,000 Arrested in Chicago Immigration Operation, Says Greg Bovino

Immigration Operation Leaves 3,000 Detainees in Chicago

Greg Bovino Defends Federal Raids

Abuse Allegations Arise in Chicago Arrests

According to the EFE news agency, Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino revealed that nearly 3,000 people have been detained in Chicago and surrounding areas as part of an immigration crackdown launched in September under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

Bovino, who oversees the El Centro Sector — covering part of southern California along the U.S.-Mexico border — stated that the raids are part of “Operation Blitz Midwest,” aimed at strengthening immigration law enforcement across the Midwest.

During an interview with ABC News, Bovino claimed the actual figures exceed official reports and that agents “used the minimum necessary force” to ensure mission success.

“It’s close to 3,000,” Bovino responded when asked about the operation’s results.

Mass Raids and Federal Military Presence

Nearly 3,000 Arrested in Chicago Immigration Operation – PHOTO: EFE

The arrests were carried out mainly in immigrant-heavy neighborhoods such as La Villita and Pilsen in Chicago, and nearby cities like Cicero, Addison, and Aurora, where many undocumented workers live.

Videos shared by residents show federal tactical teams armed and in camouflage, conducting arrests in public areas and deploying tear gas during certain operations.

In recent weeks, actions have expanded into northern Chicago neighborhoods, including affluent areas — heightening public tension and sparking debate over the scope of the operation.

Among the reported locations was O’Hare International Airport, where several Uber and Lyft drivers were detained while waiting for passengers.

Greg Bovino Defends the Immigration Operation in Chicago

PHOTO: Shutterstock

The number disclosed by Greg Bovino doubles the figures officially released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), raising questions about the operation’s transparency.

Civil rights organizations have condemned the raids as “brutal and disproportionate,” accusing agents of deploying tear gas without audible warnings — as required by an order from Federal Judge Sara Ellis.

Bovino, who faces allegations of violating that order, defended his actions and denied any misconduct.

“When we use force, we do so with the minimum amount necessary to make an arrest or ensure mission success,” said the Border Patrol chief.

Court Hearing and DHS Position

Greg Bovino is expected to appear before Judge Sara Ellis, who seeks to determine whether he had his body camera activated and whether proper warnings were issued before using tear gas.

Meanwhile, the DHS defended its agents’ actions, arguing that they are often “surrounded and attacked by agitators throwing objects” during operations.

“Federal personnel issue multiple lawful commands and verbal warnings — all of which are ignored,” the DHS stated in an official release.

Despite those justifications, images and eyewitness accounts depict a climate of fear and tension throughout Chicago.

Reactions to the Chicago Immigration Crackdown

The operation has sparked protests across the city, with demonstrators denouncing abuses and human rights violations.

Immigrant advocacy groups are calling for an immediate suspension of the ICE raids and a review of use-of-force policies in urban areas.

Community leaders warn that the crackdown has created an atmosphere of fear and hostility among Latino families.

As the debate continues, federal authorities vow to maintain the offensive under the administration’s “zero tolerance” policy.