Federal Operation "Swamp Sweep" Targets 5,000 Individuals in Louisiana and Mississippi

New Orleans, LA – A large-scale federal immigration enforcement operation, dubbed "Operation Swamp Sweep," commenced this week in southeast Louisiana and parts of Mississippi, aiming to apprehend approximately 5,000 individuals. The operation involves the deployment of around 250 Border Patrol agents, drawing significant attention and sparking protests in New Orleans, a city designated as a "sanctuary city" by the Department of Justice. The initiative is part of the Trump administration's broader push for aggressive immigration enforcement.The operation, which was first reported through internal planning documents, is expected to last for two months. Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, known for leading similar operations in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, North Carolina, is reportedly helming the campaign. The Associated Press revealed details of the plan, which intensified concerns among immigrant communities and local businesses in the region.Local reactions have been sharply divided, with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry welcoming the federal agents. Landry stated he supports federal agents "taking these dangerous criminals off the streets of Louisiana." Conversely, immigrant advocates and local businesses have expressed deep concern, citing potential negative impacts on the economy and community well-being.In response to the impending operation, dozens of people marched through downtown New Orleans on Monday evening, protesting the deployment. Chants of "No ICE, no fear – immigrants are welcome here" resonated, with protesters emphasizing the fear instilled by the federal presence. Some Hispanic-owned businesses in the New Orleans area have temporarily closed or posted signs prohibiting federal agents from entering without a judicial warrant, fearing the impact on their employees and customers.The Department of Justice has previously accused New Orleans of undermining federal immigration enforcement due to its policies. While New Orleans' police department views immigration enforcement as a civil matter, Louisiana's state legislature has passed laws intended to compel local agencies to align with federal immigration stances. The operation highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration policies and local jurisdictions.