ICE detains five Guatemalan men in South Philadelphia amid video of a neighbor confronting officers.

On Sunday, five Guatemalan men were arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during an operation in South Philadelphia, raising concerns among local immigrant communities and activists. Witnesses reported the arrests occurring at a residence located near the intersection of 20th and Morris Streets in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

A video captured by a nearby resident depicts the chaotic scene as federal agents apprehended the individuals. The footage shows two young men being handcuffed, with one placed into a gray vehicle while a neighbor shouted criticisms at the masked agents who were executing the operation. Additional footage reveals officers leading two more handcuffed men away from the property, suggesting a thorough and aggressive approach taken by ICE during the operation.

The local activist group, Juntos, has stated it is currently investigating the incident. Initial reports indicate that the agents may have specifically targeted one individual, but upon entering the residence, they arrested four additional men, leading to what are referred to as “collateral arrests.” These types of arrests occur when agents, while apprehending a primary target, detain others who may be present, such as family members or acquaintances.

Local groups, including Juntos, are voicing their discontent over the increase in ICE activity in the area. A statement from the organization highlighted an ongoing atmosphere of fear within immigrant communities, as residents have reported avoiding public spaces, such as churches and healthcare appointments, due to concerns about possible detentions. The group asserted that the ongoing ICE operations represent a violation of basic human rights.

Statistical data indicate the prevalence of ICE arrests in the region, with five individuals being arrested in this most recent operation. Past incidents include the detention of seven undocumented workers at a North Philadelphia car wash in January, followed by the arrest of four Brazilian nationals at a meat market in March. More than 20 individuals were reportedly detained in Norristown during a similar crackdown earlier this year. As of mid-June, ICE was holding over 56,000 immigrants nationwide, a rise from approximately 49,000 the previous month, with a significant percentage of those detained lacking any criminal background.

Juntos urged Philadelphia residents to actively oppose ICE’s activities and emphasized their commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of all community members. The growing fears surrounding ICE’s enforcement actions have prompted calls for solidarity and a united front against what many consider unjust practices. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the rights of immigrants, indicating that the battle against ICE’s presence in their communities will persist.