‘Worst of worst’: Federal agents arrest child sex offenders, gang members in Minneapolis operation
WASHINGTON (KWTX) - Federal immigration officials have arrested multiple individuals with criminal convictions during a December operation in Minneapolis, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement launched Operation Metro Surge on Dec. 1, targeting people with criminal backgrounds including sexual offenses, domestic violence and gang affiliations, officials said.
“ICE law enforcement are risking their lives to protect Minnesotans while their own elected officials sit by and do nothing,” Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. “No matter when and where, ICE will find, arrest, and deport ALL criminal illegal aliens.”
McLaughlin criticized local sanctuary policies and elected officials, including Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, according to the statement.
Among those arrested were individuals convicted of serious crimes, authorities reported. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed arrests included:
Sahal Osman Shidane, who was convicted of criminal sexual conduct with a minor aged 13-15, officials said.
Abdulkadir Sharif Abdi, described as a former Gangster Disciples member and current Vice Lord Nation member, according to authorities. He has convictions for fraud, receiving stolen property, vehicle theft and probation violations, officials reported.
Mukthar Mohamed Ali was convicted of assault, fraud, robbery and larceny, the department confirmed.
Ahmed Mohamed Said has multiple convictions including two domestic violence cases, three driving under the influence charges, assault and property damage, authorities said.
Other individuals arrested during the operation include people charged with domestic violence, driving under the influence and aggravated assault, officials reported.
The arrests included individuals from Somalia, Mexico and El Salvador with various criminal backgrounds, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
ICE officials said the operation specifically focused on individuals with the most serious criminal histories in the Minneapolis area.
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