Federal Immigration Surge Hits Chicago: ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ Begins, Three Arrested

Chicago is currently experiencing a 30-day federal immigration enforcement surge, dubbed “Operation Midway Blitz,” which commenced with initial arrests this week. The operation, launched by the Department of Homeland Security, saw federal agents descend on the city’s Lawndale neighborhood on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, in collaboration with Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) agents, arrested three individuals identified as suspected gang members. This enforcement action follows President Donald Trump’s order for an increased federal law enforcement presence and intensified immigration enforcement.

Marco Charles, acting director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, confirmed to ABC News that the operation targets a wide range of criminal offenders who are in the U.S. illegally, with a primary focus on “heinous criminals” involved in offenses from child sex crimes to homicide, burglary, and assault.

ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Maniff revealed that the investigation stemmed from their crime gun intelligence center, which identified 30 suspected members of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang allegedly involved in selling firearms across the Chicagoland area.

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated the operation is dedicated to Katie Abraham, a victim killed in Illinois by a criminal illegal alien. The “Midway Blitz” was announced on Monday, September 8, 2025, marking the start of the month-long enforcement period.

However, the operation has drawn criticism from local leadership. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker voiced concerns during a press conference on Tuesday, highlighting that the enforcement surge is instilling fear within the city’s residents, particularly those in mixed-status households, who are now hesitant to engage in daily activities like going to school or shopping.

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