Federal Immigration Op: DHS reports 4,100 arrests in Texas

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced on Wednesday that federal agents arrested more than 4,100 migrants in Texas over the last ten days. The operation, designated as Lone Star, ran from October 19 to October 29, 2026.

Mullin described the initiative as a resounding success. He attributed the high volume of apprehensions to 287(g) agreements that allow local and county police in states like Texas to work with federal immigration agencies. The operation maintained an average of more than 400 arrests per day.

During a press appearance alongside executives from the Enforcement and Removal Operations offices in Austin and Dallas, Mullin argued that this cooperation model improves national security. He stated that the operation would not have been possible without the help of state, local, and county partners.

Mullin provided specific data on the demographics of those detained. He claimed that 60 percent of the arrested individuals have a criminal history. When reporters asked how the agency defines a criminal record, Mullin explained that entering the country illegally can constitute a record. He added that working without authorization, using false identification, or evading taxes also count as criminal activity.

The Secretary emphasized that the operation targeted what he called the worst of the worst. He noted that ICE removed 136,481 suspected criminals during the last fiscal year. Mullin also stated that authorities captured 2,168 suspected terrorists since the start of President Donald Trump's second term. He categorized these individuals as gang members, pedophiles, rapists, and cartel members.

Mullin framed the enforcement actions in political terms ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. He contrasted the administration's approach with that of sanctuary politicians. He quoted President Trump's recent assertion that 2 percent of the population is responsible for the security of the other 98 percent. Mullin told voters to choose their politicians accordingly.

Critics have voiced concerns about the mandatory cooperation required under these federal agreements. A patrol officer in the small town of Ingram told The New York Times that he feels remorse. He said he helped arrest and deport approximately 10 percent of his town's residents.

Sheriff of Harris County, Texas, responded to online accusations on Thursday. He stated that the Harris County Sheriff's Office is legally obligated under Texas law, including SB 4, to comply with federal immigration detention orders. He clarified that the office manages the county jail but does not proactively conduct immigration enforcement operations.

The sheriff distinguished between transferring someone to ICE custody and deporting them. He said his responsibility is to follow the law, respect constitutional protections, and treat all individuals with fairness and dignity. He noted that the office does not conduct proactive immigration enforcement operations like municipal police departments might.

ICE responded to the sheriff's message on X. The agency suggested that if local authorities conducted immigration enforcement proactively, the federal government might not need to operate in their jurisdiction. The exchange occurred days before the midterm elections, where Texas is viewed as a decisive state for testing public approval of the administration's immigration policies.