U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a raid on a clandestine cockfighting ring in San Juan, Puerto Rico, resulting in the arrest of 31 individuals with irregular immigration status. The intervention was carried out in coordination with federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, the U.S. Marshals Office and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau.
During the raid, three of those arrested were charged with additional criminal activity. All of the detainees remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. These types of clandestine events, in addition to constituting animal cruelty, are often linked to crimes such as drug trafficking, illegal gambling and organized crime.
Context of the raids
Since the beginning of President Donald Trump’s second term in January 2025, immigration raids in Puerto Rico have intensified significantly.
In the first operation of the year, which took place on January 26 in Barrio Obrero in San Juan, 47 people were arrested, most of them without criminal records.
Since then, more than 445 immigrants have been arrested on the island, approximately 72% of them of Dominican nationality.
Federal authorities have emphasized that the arrests are focused on individuals with criminal records.
However, according to data from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), only 16.6% of those arrested had a criminal record.
The rest were detained for administrative infractions related to their immigration status.
Impact on immigrants
The intensification of the raids has generated a climate of fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities in Puerto Rico.
In neighborhoods such as Barrio Obrero, many residents avoid leaving their homes, taking their children to school, or accessing medical services for fear of being detained.
Tres de los arrestados fueron acusados de actividades criminales adicionales
Organizations such as the ACLU and the local Methodist Church have responded by offering legal, medical and humanitarian assistance to those affected.
Recommendations for immigrants
Know your rights: It is critical to be informed about your legal rights in the event of an ICE detention.
Avoid risky places: Stay away from events or places that may be under surveillance by immigration authorities.
Seek legal advice: Consult with immigration attorneys to understand your situation and legal options.
Keep documentation up to date: Make sure you have all documents related to your immigration status in order.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.