The reported arrest of three restaurant employees in Willmar, Minnesota, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents has ignited outrage after it was revealed the agents had reportedly dined at the establishment just hours earlier.
Agents Dine at Family Restaurant Before Enforcement Action
According to a report from the Minnesota Star Tribune published on Thursday, the incident began on Wednesday afternoon. Four ICE agents are said to have entered El Tapatio, a family-owned Mexican restaurant, for lunch at approximately 3 p.m. An eyewitness told the newspaper that staff members appeared visibly "frightened" during the agents' visit.
Arrests Follow After Restaurant Closes
The situation escalated later that evening. After the restaurant closed its doors at 8:30 p.m., agents reportedly followed workers as they departed. Three employees were then detained by the officers. The immigration status of those taken into custody has not been publicly confirmed. The arrests reportedly occurred as protesters gathered and heckled the federal agents.
Incident Fuels Tensions Amid Increased Enforcement
This event occurs during a period of heightened federal immigration enforcement activity across Minnesota. It also follows rising local tensions after ICE agent shot and killed Renee Good earlier this year. The reported tactics used in Willmar have drawn fierce criticism on social media platforms, with many users describing the actions as "depraved" and "diabolical." The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, has not yet issued a detailed public statement on the specific report.
The case highlights ongoing debates about immigration enforcement methods and their impact on communities and local businesses.
