Masked Agents Symbolize Trump's Immigration Raids

Controversial tactics used by federal agents during deportation operations

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Beyond broken car windows, people knocked down on the streets - or even a young child detained in their winter hat - images of masked federal agents conducting immigration raids have become a symbol of the Trump administration's hardline approach to immigration enforcement.

Why it matters

The use of masked federal agents during immigration raids has drawn criticism from immigrant advocates who say the tactics are overly aggressive and traumatic, especially for children. The practice highlights the divisive nature of immigration policy under the Trump administration.

The details

Agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have been photographed wearing masks or balaclavas during deportation operations, obscuring their identities. Immigrant rights groups say this tactic is intended to intimidate undocumented immigrants and their families.

  • The controversial immigration raids and use of masked agents have been ongoing since President Trump took office in 2017.

The players

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that enforces immigration laws.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations, including immigration laws.

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What they’re saying

“The use of masked agents is a tactic intended to intimidate and traumatize immigrant families, especially children who may be present during these raids.”

— Marielena Hincapié, Executive Director of the National Immigration Law Center (nhregister.com)

The takeaway

The controversial use of masked federal agents during immigration raids has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over the Trump administration's hardline immigration policies and their impact on immigrant communities.