Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus as demonstrators rally against ICE enforcement
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus
The protest against ICE continues in Columbus as community members rally against increased immigration enforcement activity across central Ohio.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that 10 individuals were arrested as part of Operation Buckeye, an enforcement surge that began on December 16. According to ICE, those taken into custody are from India, Somalia, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, and are alleged to be in the United States without legal authorization.
ICE Director Todd M. Lyons said the agency operates in Ohio regularly but recently deployed additional resources under Operation Buckeye. Officials say arrests made since January 20 include individuals accused or convicted of offenses such as drug possession, burglary, robbery, assault, disorderly conduct, DUI, and attempted abduction. ICE added that several of those detained had long-standing final orders of removal.
As enforcement continues, the protest against ICE continues in Columbus, with demonstrations reported across multiple neighborhoods. On Sunday night, protesters gathered outside the Cambria Hotel in Polaris, voicing opposition to ICE’s presence in the city. Similar protests were reported Saturday near the Embassy Suites in the Westerville area, where ICE agents were believed to be staying.
Demonstrators organized under the slogan “No Sleep for ICE”, using car horns, music, and bells in an effort to disrupt ICE personnel. Organizers said the protests will continue nightly until ICE leaves Columbus.
Earlier Sunday, hundreds of people gathered at Westerville Skatepark, marching through nearby streets while chanting and holding signs demanding an end to what they describe as aggressive immigration enforcement. Many protesters said the ongoing activity has created fear and uncertainty among immigrant families.
Several residents expressed concern that increased ICE operations are impacting community safety and family stability. Protesters emphasized that immigrants are neighbors, workers, and taxpayers who contribute to the local economy and culture.
The demonstrations were organized by the Columbus chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, which encouraged residents to document public interactions involving ICE agents. Organizers said recording encounters helps promote accountability and awareness of individual rights.
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