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In an operation regarded as one of the most extensive of the year, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the arrest of over 10,000 undocumented immigrants in the metropolitan area of Los Angeles since June, despite the unrest and protests against ICE raids.
According to the DHS, the controversial operations were "a success" despite the opposition from groups that attempted to obstruct the arrests, reported Fox News.
The arrests took place in several areas of the sanctuary city, where authorities supported the migrants and attempted to limit the cooperation of local entities with immigration services.
The Deputy Secretary of DHS, Tricia McLaughlin, defended the controversial raids by arguing that among those arrested are immigrants with serious backgrounds from various countries, including Cuba, Mexico, Iran, Kenya, and Armenia.
The DHS highlighted several emblematic cases, including that of René Reyes-Miranda, of Cuban origin, who has convictions for sexual assault of a minor, harassment, possession of cocaine, and theft.
Also that of Juan Carlos Tamayo, a Mexican, with a record for homicide and multiple attempts of murder, and that of the Iranian Alireza Hashemi, convicted of rape, domestic violence, and theft.
Additionally, they mentioned the arrests of Ambartsoum Pogosium and Akop Jack Kantrozyan, both Armenians, with records for kidnapping, fraud, and attempted murder.
According to the DHS, operations remained active even during the disturbances recorded in June, when protesters attacked public buildings and official vehicles in areas of Compton and downtown Los Angeles.
The government of President Donald Trump has maintained a tough stance on irregular immigration, leading to confrontations with California authorities, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
Newsom signed laws that restrict ICE raids in schools, hospitals, and courts, and prohibited federal agents from using masks during their operations.
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