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4 takeaways from Human Rights Watch’s report on Operation Metro Surge
The 180-page report says 64% of people arrested between December and February had no U.S. criminal history and cites subjective stops based on race or language.
Human Rights Watch released a report titled "A Manufactured Crisis: Minnesota Communities Terrorized by the Federal Government," alleging federal immigration officers engaged in racial profiling during Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota.
The Department of Homeland Security deployed 3,000 federal agents to the region starting in December, following protests over the January 24, 2026, shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal officers.
Analyzing Immigration and Customs Enforcement data from December through February, the report found 64% of those arrested had no U.S. criminal history, while courts ordered the release of 466 detainees in 532 habeas cases.
A DHS spokesperson called allegations of racial profiling "categorically FALSE," stating that 70% of illegal aliens arrested nationwide have criminal convictions or pending criminal charges in the United States.
The National Lawyers Guild documented at least 279 U.S. citizen arrests during protests, while racial profiling led many citizens of color to carry passports whenever leaving their homes.