Federal immigration enforcement in Hawaii has ramped up significantly, highlighted by recent arrests across several islands, including Kona and Maui, targeting individuals suspected of serious crimes. This surge has left communities feeling fearful and unsettled, particularly among vulnerable populations like teachers on work visas. Local officials, such as legislator Jeanne Kapela, express concerns over the presence of ICE and their operations, which reportedly happen in waves, heightening anxiety in areas like grocery stores. Federal authorities assert that these actions aim to protect communities from violent crimes.
"I think there's a lot of fear within the community... Just having ICE and HSI within our community is nerve wracking, and they've brought in a number of agents from the continent and from Honolulu to be a part of these operations."
"The targets of the operation in Hawaii include criminal illegal aliens charged with kidnapping, assault, distribution of deadly drugs, domestic abuse, and theft."
"Sometimes, they'll stand outside of our grocery stores, so I think small things like that have really turned the entire community on edge."
Collection
[
|
...
]