Minnesota, USA: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations targeting undocumented immigrants in the United States have sparked alarm among international student communities. During the ongoing ‘Metro Surge’ enforcement activity in Minnesota, two Indian students were recently detained, prompting concern among local Indian students and immigrant advocacy groups.
The incident occurred on January 8 in the Richfield area, where ICE agents surrounded the students, handcuffed them, and took them into custody. The individuals were initially suspected of being undocumented immigrants, but were later confirmed to be legally enrolled students with valid visas. ICE officials reportedly questioned them for several hours while verifying their documentation.
BREAKING
ICE reportedly detained two Indian students at an Indian restaurant in St. Louis Park yesterday afternoon.
STUDENTS, BE VERY CAREFUL. DO NOT TAKE UP ANY PART TIME JOBS THAT ARE NOT LEGALLY ALLOWED. pic.twitter.com/WmEwnAAIVf
— M9 USA🇺🇸 (@M9USA_) January 16, 2026
Minnesota State Representative Michael Howard criticised the enforcement action, calling it discriminatory to target individuals based on skin colour or language. Civil rights organisations have also raised concerns, arguing that similar actions against Indian‑origin students could amount to racial profiling. There have been broader reports of aggressive ICE operations in Minnesota, including detentions of Native American individuals and others, which have drawn public scrutiny.
The heightened enforcement context follows a deadly incident earlier this month in Minneapolis when an ICE agent fatally shot a U.S. citizen woman during a raid, triggering protests and calls for investigations into immigration enforcement tactics.
Experts advising international students have recommended that they remain vigilant, carry essential documents such as passports and I‑20 forms, comply with visa regulations, and seek legal assistance if questioned by authorities. In response to safety concerns, universities including the University of Minnesota are offering online class options to support students. The Indian Embassy and diaspora organisations are closely monitoring the situation and urging authorities to safeguard the rights of affected students and provide appropriate support.