U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported a significant increase in arrests at airports across the country. In October, the agency apprehended 138 individuals with prior criminal convictions or warrants during routine operations at airports, a 40% jump compared to the same period last year. Officials attribute the surge to enhanced data sharing and increased cooperation between federal agencies.

These arrests, part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws, have raised concerns among privacy advocates and civil liberties groups. They argue that increased enforcement at sensitive locations like airports could lead to the detention of individuals who have no criminal history but are subject to deportation orders. The agency maintains that its operations are targeted and do not affect the vast majority of travelers.

The uptick in airport arrests comes as the Trump administration continues its focus on immigration enforcement. ICE has been tasked with identifying and removing individuals who are in the country illegally, with a particular emphasis on those with criminal records. The agency stated that these operations are crucial for national security and public safety.