Feds Arrest U.S. Citizen in Minneapolis Cedar-Riverside Neighborhood
A U.S. citizen in Minneapolis was arrested by federal immigration officers in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, sparking outrage and highlighting concerns about immigration enforcement. The individual, identified as Mubashir, shared his harrowing experience during a news conference organized by the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN).
Incident Overview
The incident took place when federal officers chased Mubashir on foot and tackled him while he was on his way to get food. Video footage of the arrest revealed officers placing him in a chokehold and forcing him to kneel in the snow.
Mubashir’s Account
- Mubashir insisted he was a U.S. citizen and attempted to show his identification.
- Despite his claims, officers ignored his requests and forcibly apprehended him.
- Witnesses recorded the arrest, expressing outrage and attempting to intervene.
According to Mubashir, he spent approximately 20 minutes in a police vehicle, repeatedly asking to present his ID, which they initially refused to accept. Officers did take his picture, “How would a picture prove I’m a U.S. citizen?” he challenged.
Detention Details
Mubashir was taken to the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building at Fort Snelling. There, he was fingerprinted, and eventually, an officer allowed him to show his identification, confirming his citizenship and permitting him to leave. He stated that officers declined to take him home, forcing him to walk while his parents later picked him up.
Community Response
This incident has raised alarm in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, predominantly home to Somali residents. CAIR-MN reported that at least two other individuals claiming U.S. citizenship were arrested on the same day but later released.
- Jaylani Hussein, executive director of CAIR-MN, indicated a surge in calls from residents facing similar situations.
- He characterized the arrests as a constitutional violation and mentioned potential legal action.
Additionally, a separate incident occurred involving another Somali U.S. citizen, a woman apprehended during errands and held for 24 hours in ICE custody.
Concerns and Legal Action
Hussein emphasized the need for Somali residents to contact CAIR-MN for assistance if confronted by ICE agents. The organization has established a task force to address immigration-related issues in the community.
Future Actions
Hassan Jama, an imam and task force member, reported an uptick in racially charged incidents aimed at the Somali community, stressing the need for solidarity. “We will organize more, put our hands and efforts together and fight back,” he affirmed.
This series of events in Minneapolis sheds light on the pressing issues surrounding immigration enforcement, particularly within marginalized communities, and emphasizes the importance of legal protections for U.S. citizens.
