A surprise immigration enforcement operation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) rocked Chicago’s South Loop on Wednesday, sparking outrage from elected officials and immigrant advocacy groups.
At least 10 individuals were detained at the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) office, located at 2245 S. Michigan Ave., during what organizers and officials described as a coordinated sweep disguised as routine check-ins.
The arrests prompted swift resistance from local activists, community leaders, and elected officials—some of whom were allegedly shoved to the ground by federal agents.
Surprise Check-Ins Lead to Detentions
According to Ald. Anthony Quezada (35th), the detentions followed text messages sent to individuals enrolled in the ISAP program—typically a monitoring alternative to detention for immigrants awaiting court proceedings. These messages instructed recipients to report for unexpected check-ins.
Among those detained was Fadia Loza Salgado, who had originally been scheduled for a check-in on July 14. Her daughter, Fadia Esquivel, said her mother was blindsided by a sudden message directing her to the office that day, where she was ultimately detained.
“It’s a shame what we witnessed today,” said Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th), who joined the protest. “The people here in this city will not tolerate these atrocities.”
Tensions Rise As Officials Allegedly Assaulted
The scene escalated quickly as ICE agents in tactical gear, some carrying long guns, moved detainees to unmarked vans. Witnesses reported federal agents pushing back elected officials, including Ald. Quezada, who said he was shoved to the ground during the confrontation.
Children and family members reportedly watched in distress. A young boy was heard calling out for his mother as she was led away.
Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez (33rd) described the moment as “absolute brutality,” saying that she, Quezada, and Sigcho-Lopez responded to organizer calls and attempted to peacefully intervene.
“What I witnessed today left a chilling effect,” Rodriguez-Sanchez stated during a press conference.
Chicago Police Say They Didn’t Participate
Chicago police were present but did not cooperate with ICE, in compliance with the city’s Welcoming City Ordinance, which bars local law enforcement from aiding federal immigration authorities.
“No arrests were made by CPD, and the crowd dispersed without incident,” said Tom Ahern, a CPD spokesperson. “All actions taken by CPD were in accordance with city policy.”
Mayor’s Office and Congressional Response
The Mayor’s Office issued a statement Wednesday evening, condemning the “reckless and dangerous escalation by ICE agents.”
“Chicagoans have the right to protest the separation of family members by federal immigration enforcement,” said a mayoral spokesperson. “Federal agents should never be allowed to come into our city and assault elected officials or any Chicagoan.”
Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez called for the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing “a blatant disregard for due process” and accusing ICE of using deceitful tactics to arrest law-abiding immigrants.
Ramirez criticized the arrests as part of a nationwide strategy to meet alleged quotas floated by White House advisor Stephen Miller, who reportedly supports 3,000 arrests per day.
Pattern of Aggressive Enforcement Tactics
Wednesday’s arrests follow other troubling incidents:
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Two workers were arrested at a Pilsen restaurant on Monday without judicial warrants.
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ICE has reportedly detained individuals outside immigration courts after their cases were dismissed.
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Other cities have also seen intense ICE operations met with public resistance, including flashbang deployments in San Diego and standoffs in Minneapolis.
Community organizers, like Antonio Gutierrez of Organized Communities Against Deportations, warn this is part of an escalating national trend—one that undermines trust in public institutions and endangers vulnerable families.
Call For Accountability Grows
Chicago’s immigrant advocates and aldermen are now calling for a formal City Council hearing on ICE’s actions.
“We’re seeing families being separated and torn apart by people with weapons,” said Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th), who chairs the city’s immigration committee.
Local organizations have urged residents to know their rights, avoid panic, and remain vigilant.
Were you or someone you know present at the South Loop ICE check-ins on Wednesday? Share your story with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com. Your voice matters as we track how federal policy impacts our neighborhoods.
