Operation Midway Blitz Drives 223 Arrests in Northwest Indiana, Including Gary Amid Airport Protests

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Indiana Governor Mike Braun held a press conference in Gary, Indiana, to update the public on "Operation Midway Blitz," an immigration enforcement initiative targeting illegal immigrants, particularly commercial vehicle drivers, in the Chicago and Northwest Indiana areas. Since September, the operation has resulted in over 223 arrests, including 146 truck drivers, many of whom possess commercial driver's licenses issued predominantly by sanctuary states like California, Illinois, and New York. The initiative operates under the 287(g) agreement, allowing state police to enforce certain federal immigration laws in partnership with ICE, with more than 200 officers involved statewide. Noem emphasized the dangers posed by illegal drivers unfamiliar with road signs and safety regulations, asserting that the operation has led to thousands of arrests including those with serious criminal records. Governor Braun supported the enforcement efforts, linking the presence of illegal immigrants in sanctuary jurisdictions to issues like congressional redistricting and public safety concerns on highways. The operation reflects the Trump administration's intensified immigration crackdown in the region, with continued collaboration between federal and state authorities to expand enforcement activities.