Agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted raids on several construction sites in Florida on Thursday as part of a new offensive against undocumented workers, creating an atmosphere of fear and outrage among activists and migrant communities.
Activist Thomas Kennedy, from the Florida Immigrant Coalition, reported on social media that the operations were carried out with a deployment of agents dressed in military gear, describing it as a scene "worthy of a war zone."
"It is happening right now in Tallahassee—a raid against people who are literally building our homes. ICE agents dressed as if they were going to war," Kennedy wrote on his Instagram and Bluesky accounts.
This intervention adds to the raids conducted weeks ago in Wildwood, where more than 24 undocumented immigrants were detained at construction sites and landscaping companies.
The arrested individuals at that time came from Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, and some had previously been deported.
According to reports, the operations were carried out in coordination with multiple federal and state agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), HSI Tampa, ERO Miami, and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
The raids have sparked a wave of complaints on social media, where users and activists lament that individuals whose only activity is working in essential sectors, such as construction and the maintenance of public spaces, are being targeted.
"How shocking, taking them away while they are just working," commented user mariluz1909 in response to a video posted by activist Carlos Eduardo Espina, who has documented the operations in various areas of the state.
The operations are taking place amid a tightening of immigration policy in Florida, driven by Governor Ron DeSantis, who this week proposed allowing the National Guard to act as a judicial authority in immigration processes and would empower the Highway Patrol (FHP) to carry out raids independently.
In parts of South Florida, where the service economy and tourism heavily rely on Hispanic labor, the raids have led to a shortage of workers and widespread fear, with employees choosing to stay home to avoid arrest.
Experts warn that these actions directly impact local businesses, increase job insecurity, and weaken the stability of entire communities.
Frequently Asked Questions about ICE Raids in Florida
What happened during the recent ICE raids in Florida?
ICE agents conducted raids at construction sites in Florida, detaining undocumented workers. These actions have sparked fear and outrage among activists and migrant communities, and have been described as operations with an exaggerated deployment, akin to that of a war zone.
What has been the reaction of migrant communities to the raids?
The raids have triggered a wave of complaints on social media and a widespread atmosphere of fear among migrant workers. Activists and users express their regret that individuals who are merely seeking employment in essential sectors, such as construction and public space maintenance, are being targeted.
What impact do these raids have on the local economy of Florida?
The raids have created a shortage of workers in sectors that rely on Hispanic labor, such as construction and tourism, which directly impacts local businesses. The lack of essential workers and the fear of being arrested have weakened the stability of migrant communities and the local economy.
What measures has Governor Ron DeSantis implemented regarding immigration policy in Florida?
Governor Ron DeSantis has advocated for a tightening of immigration policies in Florida. He proposed allowing the National Guard to act as judicial authority in immigration proceedings, and empowering the Highway Patrol to conduct raids independently, which intensifies actions against undocumented immigrants.
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