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ICE Agents Spotted Making Arrests Near Jersey City/Hoboken Border
Local officials condemn ICE actions and reaffirm residents' rights amid ongoing legal battles over sanctuary city policies.
Feb. 1, 2026 at 2:31pm
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Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were reported to be active in the Jersey City and Hoboken areas of New Jersey on Sunday, prompting responses from local officials and the circulation of a video showing an arrest near a light rail elevator. Local leaders condemned the ICE presence and emphasized that residents have rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, and the right not to open their doors without a warrant signed by a judge.
Why it matters
The ICE activity in the Jersey City and Hoboken area highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments with immigrant-friendly policies and the federal government's immigration enforcement efforts. Several cities in New Jersey, including Hoboken and Jersey City, are currently involved in legal disputes with the federal government over their 'sanctuary city' policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The details
According to reports, ICE agents were spotted making arrests near a light rail elevator in the Heights neighborhood of Jersey City. A video circulating on social media appears to show an ICE agent arresting a man and warning a woman recording the incident that she would be arrested if she approached too closely. The agent was seen escorting the man to a black van with no front license plate and an indecipherable rear plate.
- On Sunday, February 1, 2026, ICE activity was reported in Jersey City and Hoboken, New Jersey.
The players
Ravi Bhalla
Assemblyman representing Hoboken and Jersey City, who received reports of ICE operations and viewed video footage of an interaction between an agent and a civilian.
James Solomon
The Mayor of Jersey City, who confirmed ICE's presence in the area and emphasized that residents have rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, and the right not to open their doors without a warrant signed by a judge.
Emily Jabbour
The Mayor of Hoboken, who confirmed ICE's presence in the area and noted that she spoke with witnesses.
What they’re saying
“You have rights, and this city will defend them.”
— James Solomon, Mayor of Jersey City
“You can film, but don't get close.”
— ICE Agent
“Go get a job.”
— ICE Agent
What’s next
Several cities in New Jersey, including Hoboken and Jersey City, are currently involved in legal disputes with the federal government over their 'sanctuary city' policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Governor Mikie Sherrill has encouraged New Jersey residents to report ICE activity through a citizen portal.
The takeaway
The ICE activity in the Jersey City and Hoboken area highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments with immigrant-friendly policies and the federal government's immigration enforcement efforts. As these legal battles continue, the outcome could shape the future of ICE operations and residents' rights in New Jersey.
