WASHINGTON: Hundreds of individuals labeled as "illegal immigrant criminals" were arrested on Thursday, (January 24, 2025) while several hundred others were deported from the United States via military aircraft. This marks the beginning of a large-scale deportation operation promised by President Donald Trump, the White House confirmed.

White House Press Secretary Karoline announced - Donald Trump Admin arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals, including, 4 members of the Tren de Aragua gang, suspected terrorists and others convicted of Sex-crimes against minors.-  The Tren de Aragua gang, originating in Venezuela, has gained notoriety as it continues to expand into the U.S.

According to a senior administration official, out of the 538 arrested, 373 individuals had prior criminal records, while 165 were detained solely for immigration violations. Additionally, 1,041 individuals were either deported or repatriated during the operation.

Some of the arrests highlighted include - A 23-year-old Ecuadorian man, previously convicted of rape, arrested in Buffalo.

In San Francisco, ICE detained a man convicted of sexually abusing a child under the age of 14, for which he was sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Regarding deportations, a defense official confirmed that two military flights departed overnight, both heading to Guatemala:

1. A flight from El Paso carrying 80 individuals arrived early in the morning.
2. A Tucson flight, also with 80 passengers, landed around 7 a.m.

A 2nd El-Paso flight with 105 individuals reacched later that afternoon.

This is the largest deportation operation in history, and it is progressing effectively.

In response to the deportation efforts, President Trump, speaking in Asheville, North Carolina, while assessing damage from Hurricane Helene, said, "The deportation process is going very well. We are focusing on removing the most dangerous criminals first." He further added, "These are individuals with serious criminal backgrounds, some of the worst offenders. We are ensuring they are taken out promptly."

Officials clarified that the use of military aircraft for deportation flights was a decision made under the Trump administration. These flights are part of a broader strategy announced by the acting Secretary of Defense, following an executive order by President Trump to bolster military involvement at the U.S. border.

As part of his campaign pledge, President Trump has intensified measures against illegal immigration since beginning his second term. His administration issued several executive orders this week aimed at restructuring the U.S. immigration framework.

There are an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants currently residing in the United States, with many having lived in the country for several years.

In response to the operations, Newark, New Jersey Mayor Ras Baraka slammed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), alleging that agents conducted raids at a local business.