Heavily armed federal agents in military-style outfits descended upon downtown Chicago on Sunday, demonstrating force as part of the Trump administration’s effort labeled as a crackdown on illegal immigration in the sanctuary city.

Visitors noted the presence of numerous U.S. Border Patrol agents at popular sites like the Magnificent Mile, while Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported deploying hundreds of ICE officers in the downtown area. This display of federal manpower is a segment of “Operation Midway Blitz,” an initiative delivering increased federal resources that commenced earlier this month.

“I would say the majority are actually glad we’re here,” explained Gregory Bovino, U.S. Border Patrol’s commander-at-large, regarding public sentiment. “People are congratulating us, expressing relief that we have arrived. Many inner-city residents of Chicago welcome our presence, as they often face challenges stemming from extensive illegal immigration over recent years, including dealing with violence linked to undocumented immigrants.”

However, the federal activity was not welcomed by everyone. A tourist captured an image of a family being detained by Border Patrol agents near Millennium Park, noting an infant was crying amid the situation.

A tourist from Arkansas who identified himself as Jake R. said the sight of militarized officers was jarring in the urban setting.

“It was quite unsettling to witness a group of masked individuals carrying silenced rifles. It feels intimidating, particularly for those visiting the city,” he shared.

ICE facility has been flashpoint in Chicago

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson released a statement on Sunday, describing the federal presence downtown as a “brazen provocation from the Trump administration that fails to enhance our city’s safety.” His administration has criticized ICE operations, arguing that targeting “the worst of the worst” often results in the detention of migrants who have not committed any crimes.

Prior to Sunday, the enlarged federal presence in Chicago was focused on the ICE detention center in west suburban Broadview. Protesters have gathered there to impede the progress of migrant roundups. Border Patrol agents are running security at the fenced-in complex, where agents occasionally have shot off tear gas and pepper balls to disperse crowds.

Authorities arrested 11 people Saturday before dispersing demonstrators around 8:30 p.m. The Department of Homeland Security says agents recovered two guns and potential explosives.