Federal and local authorities in Indiana conducted a major operation targeting unlicensed commercial drivers, resulting in the arrest of 223 illegal immigrants, including 146 semi-truck drivers. The action, announced during a press conference in Gary, Indiana, is part of Operation Midway Blitz, a federal immigration enforcement effort focused on the greater Chicago area.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the risks posed by unauthorized drivers, stating, “If you are here driving on our streets and highways illegally, you are endangering our citizens, and your days are numbered.” She highlighted concerns about individuals operating large vehicles without proper language skills, legal understanding, or ability to interact with law enforcement.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) acting director Todd Lyons revealed that many arrested drivers had criminal records, including drug trafficking, assault, and fraud. The operation follows recent fatal collisions linked to illegal immigrant truck drivers, including cases where individuals reportedly failed commercial driver’s license (CDL) tests multiple times before obtaining credentials.
The crackdown underscores growing tensions over public safety and the issuance of CDLs to undocumented immigrants, with officials criticizing sanctuary jurisdictions for enabling such practices. Noem also referenced a similar operation in Oklahoma, which led to over 250 arrests of illegal immigrant truck drivers.
