Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna has confirmed that federal authorities have assured him there will be no civil immigration enforcement at World Cup matches or associated events in the city. The announcement was made on Monday as officials detailed comprehensive security plans for the eight matches scheduled to begin on 12 June.
Speaking at a press conference with local, state, and federal law enforcement officials, Sheriff Luna addressed earlier reports and rumours about potential ICE presence at the Fifa games. He stated that federal agents would be present to ensure venue security but clarified that civil immigration enforcement would not occur at any of the games. However, he noted that this policy could change, adding that if it did, it would create a new set of problems.
The assurance follows previous immigration raids by masked ICE agents in Los Angeles last year, which sparked widespread demonstrations. Security measures will be significantly heightened around Iran's two matches in Los Angeles, with authorities closely monitoring for potential protests. Iran is set to play its first tournament match on 15 June at SoFi Stadium, located in a region with the largest concentration of Iranians outside Iran.
Sheriff Luna acknowledged that Iran brings a different dynamic due to current world events, confirming additional staffing for those games. Officials also issued a stern warning regarding unauthorised drone usage near World Cup venues, confirming a zero tolerance policy. Temporary flight restrictions are anticipated, and the FBI has the capability to bring down violating drones to safe locations away from crowds.
Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman underscored the unprecedented scale of law enforcement presence during the tournament, issuing a direct warning to potential offenders that from 11 June to 19 July, it would be a terrible time to commit a crime, with prosecution and punishment guaranteed.
