ICE Agents Dine, Later Detain Three Workers at Willmar Mexican Restaurant
Four ICE agents ate lunch at El Tapatio in Willmar, Minnesota; hours later they detained three restaurant workers amid local protests and heightened immigration enforcement.
Overview
Four ICE agents ate at El Tapatio around 3 p.m.; after the restaurant closed that evening, officers detained three workers near a local church and middle school.
Witnesses photographed and filmed the scene and said staff appeared frightened; bystanders blew whistles and shouted as the detentions were carried out.
DHS identified the operation's target as Jose Rosario Gomez and said officers later conducted a vehicle stop, apprehending the target and two additional individuals.
The arrests occurred amid Operation Metro Surge, part of increased federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota following high-profile confrontations between ICE and protesters.
Local businesses reported closures and staffing fears; the Willmar mayor urged respect for lawful protest while noting ICE's federal responsibilities.
Analysis
Analysis unavailable for this viewpoint.
Sources (6)
FAQ
The target was Jose Rosario Gomez, an illegal alien from Mexico, positively identified inside the restaurant. Officers apprehended him and two additional illegal aliens during a vehicle stop later that day.
Operation Metro Surge is a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota involving increased ICE activities, targeting undocumented immigrants amid high-profile confrontations with protesters.
Local businesses like El Tapatio closed after ICE visits, with others posting closure signs or changing operations due to staff fears; one liquor store reported 75% business loss.
Witnesses photographed and filmed the frightened staff during the arrests near a church and middle school; bystanders blew whistles, shouted at officers, and protested the actions.
History
This story does not have any previous versions.