Trump’s deportation drive sparks altercations with demonstrators in Minneapolis

Immigration agents deploy pepper spray amid protests from the Somali community against Trump’s crackdown, while city leaders turn down support for federal enforcement.

On Tuesday, US immigration agents deployed pepper spray against protesters in Minneapolis as residents obstructed the officers’ vehicles, compelling them to vacate the area.

The state capital of Minnesota, Minneapolis, hosts the largest Somali community in the nation and has recently become a focal point for mass deportation efforts by the Trump administration.

Last week, federal agents initiated an enforcement operation targeting Somali immigrants residing unlawfully in the United States. However, less than half of those who have been detained are of Somali origin.

In a recent outburst regarding Somali immigrants, President Trump referred to them as “garbage” and claimed they “contribute nothing” to the country.

His remarks have elicited surprise and disapproval in both the US and Somalia.

Trump’s criticism was prompted by allegations of fraud within social security programs in Minnesota.

State officials have condemned Trump’s rhetoric and committed to safeguarding the Somali community. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced that the city’s police would refrain from engaging in federal immigration enforcement activities.