Bellevue Police Confirm DHS Operation

Video shows immigration arrest, raising questions about federal activity in the area.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bellevue police have confirmed that a federal operation involving the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) took place in the city on Friday morning. A video circulating online appeared to show an immigration arrest near Robinswood Park, with unmarked vans blocking a car and plainclothes officers detaining someone who was heard shouting 'asylum' in Spanish.

Why it matters

The incident has raised questions about the extent of DHS operations in the Bellevue area and the treatment of immigrants and asylum seekers. Bellevue police say they were notified about the federal activity but arrived after DHS had already left the scene.

The details

According to Bellevue police, they were called to the intersection of 148th Avenue Southeast and Southeast 16th Street after reports of a vehicle blocking the southbound lane. The callers stated that before calling 911, DHS had detained a person and left the location. Bellevue police confirmed the federal operation and said they have contacted DHS to learn more about the incident and the person who was detained.

  • The incident occurred on Friday morning, February 6, 2026.

The players

Bellevue Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and confirmed the federal DHS operation.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that conducted the operation in Bellevue, leading to the detention of an individual.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Bellevue Police Department also contacted the Department of Homeland Security and confirmed that a federal operation had taken place in that area.”

— Bellevue Police Department (KIRO Newsradio)

What’s next

KIRO Newsradio has reached out to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to learn more about the operation and the person detained.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies like DHS in local communities. It raises questions about the transparency and oversight of such operations, as well as the potential impact on immigrant and asylum-seeking residents.