FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Reports from immigration watch groups of increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in several Central California counties have prompted protests, public concern and calls to local leaders from residents worried about the impact on immigrant communities.
A large group of people gathered outside the ICE office in downtown Fresno in response to the reported increase in activity. Community members and local leaders said the reports have created fear and uncertainty for many families.
Outside the Fresno ICE office, protesters held candles and signs reading “Abolish ICE.”
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“This upsurge in ICE activity has been mind-blowing,” said Alfred Aldrete of Fresno Resistance.
In Madera, residents raised concerns during Wednesday evening’s City Council meeting after immigration officers were reported in the area. Photos and videos shared with Action News showed several unmarked vehicles surrounding a home on Columbia Street earlier in the morning.
“This is not normal and it should not be normalized,” said Madera resident Juan Santiago.
Santiago said the reported activity has had a broader impact on the community.
“It creates fear and creates anxiety, and that’s not good. That’s not good to live in those situations. There’s no need for that,” he said.
In a social media post, the Madera Police Department said it does not participate in or provide support for immigration operations and does not communicate with ICE.
Elsewhere in the Valley, Mendota Mayor Victor Martinez criticized the reported increase in immigration enforcement activity.
“Our people don’t deserve that. Our people are hardworking immigrants. They go and work in the fields day in and day out to harvest the fruits that everybody eats,” Martinez said.
The reported activity also raised concerns within the Mendota Unified School District. The district confirmed to Action News that 130 more students were absent Wednesday compared to a week ago.
“Tell me, how does that help? And where does it make sense? Not having kids going to school, people not going to buy groceries, people not going to their doctor appointments,” he said.
Action News reached out to ICE, which said it cannot disclose or discuss its law enforcement operations. The agency added that the Department of Homeland Security enforces the nation’s laws every day.
The Mendota Unified School District also sent a letter to families, reassuring them that it remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
By ABC 30’s Ana Torrea on Facebook, X and Instagram.
