On February 5, 2025, federal law enforcement officers conducted large-scale immigration raids in Aurora and Denver, targeting apartment buildings and detaining several individuals. The operation involved heavily armed agents and aimed to capture over 100 members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Approximately 30 people were detained during the raids, with only one confirmed gang member among them.

The raids, which started early in the morning, featured agents using battering rams to enter buildings and deploying smoke or flash grenades to distract occupants. Despite the high-profile nature of the operation, no official tally of those taken into custody was provided. The presence of a film crew documenting the events added to the publicity.

The raids have sparked controversy and fear within Colorado’s immigrant communities. Advocacy groups and state Democratic lawmakers criticized the operation, arguing that it blurs the lines between civil immigration enforcement and criminal law enforcement. They also expressed concerns that the raids could deter victims and witnesses from cooperating with local police and prosecutors, potentially impacting public safety.

Local law enforcement has tried to reassure the community, but the uncertainty has led to heightened anxiety among immigrants. The raids have also raised questions about the potential impact on Colorado’s construction industry, which relies heavily on undocumented workers. Industry professionals fear that increased immigration enforcement could lead to labor shortages and higher housing costs.

In response to the raids, protests have erupted in Denver, with immigrant rights groups and community members voicing their opposition. During one protest, two suspects were arrested for attacking protesters with glass bottles and making threatening gestures. This incident has sparked an online movement seeking justice for the victims.

The immigration raids in Colorado highlight the ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on local communities. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how these operations will affect public safety and the lives of immigrants in the region.

©️ The Rocky Mountain Dispatch LLC. 2025