Harlingen: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported a significant enforcement action in Texas, with the Harlingen field office arresting 238 immigrants in a single-day operation in the Rio Grande Valley. This operation is described as the largest targeted enforcement action in the region, according to Fox News.

According to Anadolu Agency, the operation, conducted on June 18 in collaboration with law enforcement partners, resulted in the apprehension of individuals with prior convictions for crimes such as attempted kidnapping, sexual battery, and drug possession. Harlingen Field Office Director Juan Agudelo emphasized the mission's focus on enhancing public safety and maintaining the integrity of the nation's immigration system.

Among those arrested was Manuel Morales-Geronimo, identified by ICE as a member of the Paisas gang. Morales-Geronimo, a Mexican national, had previous convictions for assault causing bodily injury, possession of controlled substances, marijuana possession, driving while intoxicated, illegal entry, and three counts of illegal reentry. Another individual, Jose Alfredo Castillo-Mendoza, also a Mexican national, was arrested with prior convictions for attempted kidnapping, sexual battery, and illegal reentry.

The announcement of these arrests coincided with President Donald Trump's defense of immigration enforcement traffic stops. This comes amid reports that the Department of Homeland Security had considered suspending most traffic stops. President Trump stated on social media that such stops remain "one of ICE's most important and effective crime-fighting tools."