Border Patrol's Chicago Arrival Stirs Controversy as Protests Loom

Tue Sep 16 2025 22:47:47 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The new Border Patrol initiative spearheaded by Gregory Bovino in Chicago raises alarm among immigrant communities after a sharp increase in immigration enforcement.

Border Patrol agent Gregory Bovino has announced the arrival of 'Operation At Large' in Chicago, continuing the crackdown on immigration enforcement that previously sparked protests in Los Angeles. Amid rising tensions, local leaders and immigrant advocates express concern over increased raids and deportations as communities brace for unrest ahead of Mexican Independence Day celebrations.

CHICAGO – In a social media announcement on Tuesday, Border Patrol agent Gregory Bovino confirmed that he has arrived in Chicago to lead 'Operation At Large,' building upon a controversial immigration crackdown that previously led to significant protests in Los Angeles.

Well, Chicago, we’ve arrived! Bovino declared in a post on X, sharing images of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicles and their agents throughout downtown Chicago. This initiative promises to intensify enforcement actions, as President Trump had hinted at increasing deportations in the city despite local leaders' objections.

Local immigration advocates report a noticeable uptick in ICE activity, causing anxiety within Chicago's immigrant communities as planned celebrations for Mexican Independence Day have been cancelled or postponed out of fear of enforcement actions.

Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Tricia McLaughlin, provided support for Bovino, stating that his role is critical to their targeted enforcement operations. Additionally, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem assured the public that their efforts in Chicago were just beginning, emphasizing a commitment to continue their crackdown.

Bovino's previous operations have garnered public outcry for aggressive tactics, including forceful home raids and aggressive patrols of public areas. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has criticized the increased federal presence, affirming that ICE's activities have visibly intensified across the region, marking a fearsome chapter for local immigrant communities.