ICE boosts its presence in Maine amid U.S. immigration crackdown

ICE has launched a statewide operation called "Operation Catch of the Day" in Maine, and Governor Janet Mills has said state officials will not assist with obscuring federal vehicle identities.

ICE announced the launch of "Operation Catch of the Day" across Maine, saying the effort will target undocumented migrants and people accused of crimes. The announcement follows recent federal enforcement surges in other states. Maine Governor Janet Mills and some local officials have declined to help federal agents obscure vehicle identities and have said agents should show warrants while expressing concern about family separations. What officials said: - The Department of Homeland Security and ICE named the Maine operation and described it as part of a broader enforcement effort. - Governor Janet Mills said state officials will not assist with undercover license plates, and she said federal agents should show warrants and that separating parents who have committed no crime can foster fear among neighbours. - DHS officials said arrests include people they described as serious offenders and connected the Maine action to prior operations in Massachusetts, Minnesota and Chicago. Summary: The operation is under way and has prompted formal objections from Maine officials. Undetermined at this time.