Immigrant deportations to start this weekend in 10 cities: Trump
US President Donald Trump says raids aimed at deporting undocumented migrants will focus on criminals, such as gang members, this weekend in 10 cities. "People come into our country illegally, we're taking them out legally. Very simple. It's not something I like doing," Trump said. Referring to the violent gang MS-13, he added, "I have an obligation to do it."
- World
- Reuters
- Published Date: 06:55 | 12 July 2019
- Modified Date: 07:29 | 12 July 2019
U.S. authorities plan to start arresting immigrants eligible for deportation in 10 cities this weekend, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday, adding that he was not concerned about the advance notice.
Trump warned last month about the planned deportations, which were earlier reported by the New York Times.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he was not concerned that plans of the arrests have become publicly known, saying the deportations were not a secret.
"If the word gets out, it gets out," he said.
At least 2,000 immigrant families are eligible for deportation and will be targeted in the raids, the Times reported, citing former and current officials.
"We'll focus on criminals as much as a we can," Trump added.
Mayors of a number of cities expected to be targeted have said they will not cooperate with deportations carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Immigrant advocates have said advance word of the raids could help some of those targeted evade arrest.
- Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400s does not change strategic orientation: Hulusi Akar
- Turkey anxious at attacks on mosques in Germany
- At least 12 people killed in al-Shabaab attack on Somali hotel
- May says she will leave disappointed after Brexit failure
- Acting US defense chief to speak with Turkey's Akar