Crowd Turns Violent After Feds Bust Twin Cities Taco Chain for Alleged Crimes

Federal law enforcement agencies conducted a major operation at two taco restaurants in Minneapolis and Bloomington, sparking protests and confrontations between far-left activists and police. The raids, part of what ICE described as a “groundbreaking criminal operation,” targeted establishments suspected of involvement in drug smuggling, labor trafficking, and money laundering activities. Why haven’t there been any legal consequences for the protesters assaulting federal authorities?

Federal Raids Target Twin Cities Taco Restaurants

Federal agents from multiple agencies, including ICE, DEA, FBI, and IRS, conducted raids at Las Cuatro Milpas in Minneapolis and another taqueria in Bloomington on Tuesday. The operation was described by ICE Homeland Security Investigations as a “groundbreaking criminal operation” targeting drug smuggling, labor trafficking, and money laundering activities.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey clarified the purpose of the raids, stating, “While we are still gathering details, this incident was related to a criminal search warrant for drugs and money laundering and was not related to immigration enforcement.” FBI Evidence Teams were observed at the scene, with an FBI spokesperson confirming the operation was court-authorized while declining to provide additional details.

Protesters Clash With Law Enforcement

Hundreds of protesters gathered at the scene as federal agents executed their warrants, with tensions quickly escalating. Some demonstrators attempted to block law enforcement vehicles from leaving the area, resulting in officers using chemical irritants and sirens to disperse the crowd.

The Minneapolis Police Department stated their presence was only to “ensure the crowd and the surrounding area remained safe,” with Police Chief Brian O’Hara personally on the scene. At least one protester was reported to have physically assaulted an officer during the confrontations, which occurred along a stretch of Lake Street known for demonstrations following George Floyd’s murder.

Questions About Local Police Involvement

The presence of Minneapolis police officers alongside federal agents sparked criticism from community members and local officials. Minneapolis City Council Member Jason Chavez questioned why local police were involved in the operation despite previous commitments not to assist in civil immigration enforcement.

ICE Homeland Security Investigations St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt emphasized the collaborative nature of the operation, stating, “From drug smuggling to criminal labor trafficking, this operation showcases the breadth of our collective missions and the strength of a united front.” The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office also issued a statement confirming their participation was “not related to immigration enforcement,” reinforcing the criminal nature of the investigation.

The operation was reported to be the first of its kind in Minnesota under the Homeland Security Task Force, signaling potential increased coordination between federal and local law enforcement agencies in addressing complex criminal networks. Critics have raised concerns about the impact such operations might have on immigrant communities, particularly in the context of heightened enforcement policies.

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