Activists followed immigration officers through Minneapolis, then the situation turned explosive

Tensions escalated sharply in Minneapolis this week after immigration officers drew firearms and arrested activists who were following their vehicles. The story gained traction when reported by the Associated Press, which detailed the confrontation amid broader concerns about federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota. Education leaders across the state have also reported rising fear and anxiety in schools as enforcement activity increases.

The confrontation occurred in south Minneapolis after activists trailed several federal vehicles. In recent weeks, agents in the Twin Cities have shifted away from large-scale operations in parking lots and toward more targeted arrests in neighborhoods and at private residences. Officers ultimately stopped their vehicles and ordered the activists out of a car at gunpoint.

An Associated Press photographer witnessed the arrests, including at least one person who was handcuffed while lying face-down on the ground and wearing clothing with an anti-ICE message. Agents also warned reporters to keep their distance and threatened to use pepper spray if they did not comply.

The escalation shows how volatile the situation remains

The incident underscores that tensions have not eased since the fatal shooting of protester Alex Pretti. Last month, a federal judge imposed limits on how officers could treat motorists who follow them without interfering, ruling that following agents at an appropriate distance does not alone justify a vehicle stop. That order was later set aside by an appeals court, increasing the legal risk for activists who attempt to monitor immigration operations, as reflected in coverage of a DHS restraining order dissolved.

Leadership changes have also contributed to the confrontational atmosphere. Greg Bovino, a high-profile U.S. Border Patrol commander, left Minneapolis last week, and the Trump administration sent border czar Tom Homan to take over. Homan has warned that protesters could face serious consequences if they interfere with officers carrying out enforcement actions.

Officials describe the current enforcement strategy as Operation Metro Surge, and its impact is being felt well beyond street-level encounters. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz met with public school officials Tuesday in St. Paul after reports that immigration agents have increasingly targeted areas near schools. Walz said the shift has created a more chilling environment, particularly for children and families.

School leaders say fear has spread quickly through their communities. Brenda Lewis, superintendent of Fridley Public Schools, said she has been followed twice by ICE agents since speaking publicly about the issue and described widespread anxiety among students, parents, and staff. Her district, which serves Somali and Ecuadorian families, has increased security, trained observers, modified drop-off procedures, and expanded mental health support in response.

At the same time, the legal battle between state and federal officials is intensifying. The U.S. Justice Department has subpoenaed Governor Walz and others for records related to any efforts to obstruct the administration’s immigration crackdown, and Minneapolis faced a Tuesday deadline to provide information to a federal grand jury. The debate has also spilled into claims about protest funding behind anti-ICE. Mayor Jacob Frey’s spokesperson said the city is complying while denouncing the subpoenas as politically motivated, while Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has praised court rulings that have allowed the enforcement surge to continue.