In a dramatic early morning operation that has drawn widespread condemnation, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained a Mexican mother and her six-month-old baby in Gresham, Oregon.
The raid, which occurred on Tuesday morning, saw armed federal officers surround the family's residence and take both mother and infant into custody. Neighbours reported witnessing multiple ICE vehicles and uniformed agents conducting the operation in the quiet residential neighbourhood.
Community Outrage and Legal Response
Local immigration advocates quickly mobilised, expressing outrage at what they describe as an unnecessarily aggressive tactic targeting a vulnerable family. "Taking a breastfeeding mother and her baby into custody is beyond cruel," stated Maria Rodriguez, a community organiser with Oregon Immigrant Rights Alliance.
Legal representatives for the family have filed an emergency motion seeking their immediate release, arguing that detaining an infant raises serious humanitarian and legal concerns. The mother, whose identity remains protected, had been pursuing legal avenues to remain in the United States.
ICE Defends Enforcement Action
In an official statement, ICE officials defended the operation, stating the mother was "an immigration fugitive" who had exhausted her legal options and faced a final order of removal. The agency claims it follows standard procedures during enforcement actions.
However, critics point to the Biden administration's supposed guidelines prioritising dangerous criminals over families with minor children. "This action directly contradicts the administration's own enforcement priorities," argued immigration attorney David Chen.
Growing Pattern of Family Targeting
This incident marks the latest in a series of controversial enforcement actions involving families and children. Advocacy groups report increasing numbers of similar cases despite official policies suggesting restraint.
The detention has sparked protests outside the federal building where the family is believed to be held, with demonstrators demanding their immediate release and calling for immigration reform.
As the legal battle continues, the fate of the mother and child remains uncertain, highlighting the ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement and family protection in current US policy.
