U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with assistance from several federal and local agencies, arrested 31 individuals in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 9. The operation targeted an illegal cockfighting venue where three of those arrested faced charges for criminal activity.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau.
Rebecca González-Ramos, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations in San Juan, emphasized the importance of local partnerships: “This operation is part of ongoing enforcement under the Presidential Executive Order to combat illegal immigration across Puerto Rico. Local enforcement partnerships are key to fulfill our mission of keeping our communities safe.”
All individuals apprehended are currently in ICE custody awaiting removal proceedings. ICE's operations prioritize public safety and national security threats. Individuals found illegally present during such operations may be detained and processed for removal according to legal procedures.
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by contacting the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or through their online tip form.
For more information about ICE HSI's mission to enhance public safety in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, follow @HSISanJuan on X.
