Federal agents have ramped up Alaska immigration raids, with FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration teams assisting US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Anchorage. Over the past few days, officials have detained multiple individuals, marking a rare collaboration between these agencies in the state.
The FBI’s Anchorage office shared images on X showing agents leading detainees in jail uniforms into the Department of Homeland Security’s local headquarters. Another image depicted a handcuffed individual in street clothes outside a residential area.
The DEA’s Seattle office posted similar images, including one of a detainee in a yellow Anchorage jail jumpsuit being escorted into ICE’s Fairview office. ICE’s national social media account reposted the update, praising the partnership for removing criminal aliens from American communities.
These publicized actions indicate a possible escalation in immigration enforcement in Alaska, a state with fewer ICE operations than larger metropolitan areas. Anchorage-based immigration attorney Lara Nations noted a sharp rise in enforcement activity over the past week, exceeding normal levels.
She described the FBI and DEA’s involvement in immigration matters as highly unusual for Alaska. However, authorities have not disclosed specific details regarding detainees or the total number of individuals taken into custody.
The FBI’s Anchorage office responded to inquiries with a statement highlighting its established collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security. Officials said their level of support fluctuates based on ICE’s operational needs. Neither ICE nor the DEA immediately addresses media requests for further clarification.
Since President Donald Trump assumed office two weeks ago, states nationwide have reported a surge in immigration arrests and deportations. The extent of Alaska immigration raids remains unclear, but local jails routinely process detainees before transferring them to the Tacoma, Washington, detention center.
The ACLU of Alaska has been preparing communities for possible enforcement actions since December. Executive Director Mara Kimmel emphasized the importance of constitutional rights and advised noncitizens to avoid engaging with law enforcement without a warrant. In the event of incarnation, families have been urged to put emergency preparations in place for both legal and medical situations.
This news article was originally published by Anchorage Daily News.
