Somali businesses in Minneapolis report losses amid ICE crackdown

Vendors at Karmel Mall in south Minneapolis say many shops have closed and customer traffic has fallen as residents report fear of recent immigration enforcement in the city.

Rows of shops at Karmel Mall in south Minneapolis have been largely closed, vendors and neighbors reported. Owners say the slowdown began about three weeks ago and stems from fear of recent immigration enforcement in the city. The mall serves as an economic and community hub for the area's large Somali population and many vendors report sharp drops in customers and income. Reported details: - Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said law enforcement uses "reasonable suspicion" under the Fourth Amendment and that enforcement targets immigration status, not race or ethnicity. - Business owners report many shops closed and customers staying away; one vendor said the slowdown has lasted about three weeks. - A shop owner selling electronics said his business is down about $20,000 per month since the crackdown began. - Residents said fear extends to U.S. citizens in the community following recent ICE-related incidents in the city. Summary: The reported effect is a notable drop in foot traffic and revenue at a key Somali commercial center. Officials framed enforcement as based on immigration status and lawful standards, while community members say fear is widespread. Undetermined at this time.