New york: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested nine undocumented immigrants with criminal records during an operation on Canal Street in New York City, the Homeland Security Department announced Wednesday. The enforcement action was part of a broader effort to address criminal activities associated with undocumented individuals.

According to Anadolu Agency, the agency reported that those arrested had criminal histories, including charges of robbery, burglary, domestic violence, assaulting law enforcement, counterfeiting, drug trafficking, drug possession, and forgery. The operation was characterized by ICE as "targeted, intelligence-driven," focusing on the sale of counterfeit goods. However, the operation faced challenges as protesters allegedly assaulted and obstructed law enforcement by blocking vehicles, leading to the arrest of four individuals for assaulting officers and another for obstruction.

The New York Police Department clarified its position, stating it had "no involvement in the federal operation that took place on Canal Street." This distancing reflects the complex dynamics between federal and local law enforcement agencies.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed criticism of the operation. She took to US social media platform X to voice her disapproval, suggesting that the actions contradicted the goals of making the city safer. Hochul highlighted that President Donald Trump claimed the operation targeted "the worst of the worst," yet it resulted in the use of force against street vendors and bystanders on Canal Street. She emphasized, "You don't make New York safer by attacking New Yorkers."