A large-scale immigration enforcement operation, internally dubbed “Swamp Sweep,” is poised to descend upon Louisiana and Mississippi, beginning December 1st. Documents reveal the Department of Homeland Security is deploying 250 border agents to the region for a two-month crackdown.
The operation aims to apprehend approximately 5,000 individuals across southeast Louisiana and into Mississippi, marking a significant escalation in federal immigration enforcement. This action follows similar crackdowns recently conducted in major cities like Chicago and Los Angeles.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, a staunch ally of former President Trump, publicly acknowledged close collaboration with federal partners on both immigration and crime control. He emphasized a commitment to safety, regardless of an individual’s immigration status.
Landry specifically highlighted concerns regarding criminal activity linked to individuals in the country without legal authorization, citing consistent issues reported by Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley. Conley has repeatedly faced challenges with violent crime allegedly committed by undocumented individuals within his city.
Chief Conley recently detailed a community safety operation involving Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and ICE, resulting in the apprehension of 13 to 15 individuals. He described escalating nuisance crimes and harassment occurring near the lakefront, prompting a stronger response.
For years, residents have voiced complaints about lawlessness and disruptive behavior in the area. Despite increased police presence, the situation worsened, with citizens reporting instances of harassment, bullying, and strong-arming.
U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, a veteran of previous immigration enforcement operations under the Trump administration, is reportedly leading “Swamp Sweep.” His experience signals a determined approach to the operation.
Border Patrol teams are preparing to conduct sweeps across neighborhoods in southeast Louisiana, extending from New Orleans through multiple parishes, and even reaching as far north as Baton Rouge. Agents will also be deployed into southeastern Mississippi.
Federal authorities are actively securing staging sites in anticipation of the operation. A portion of the FBI’s New Orleans field office has been designated as a command post, and a naval base will serve as a storage facility for vehicles, equipment, and non-lethal munitions.
The Department of Homeland Security has requested access to the naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in New Orleans for up to 90 days, beginning this weekend, to support the logistical demands of “Swamp Sweep.” This extended timeframe suggests a comprehensive and sustained effort.
