Federal immigration agents carried out an arrest Thursday at El Rancherito, a popular restaurant in East Chicago, Indiana, sparking widespread concern after video footage of the incident circulated rapidly on social media. The arrest, conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), drew immediate responses from both city officials and community members, particularly due to the lack of prior notice to local authorities.

The video, which shows ICE agents detaining an individual inside the restaurant, quickly gained traction online, prompting questions about the coordination between federal and local agencies. City leaders, including Mayor Anthony Copeland and East Chicago Police Chief José Rivera, addressed the situation, emphasizing the city’s stance on community trust and safety.

Mayor Copeland expressed concern regarding ICE’s decision to proceed without notifying local law enforcement. “We were unaware of the operation and are currently seeking more information about the circumstances surrounding this arrest,” he stated. The mayor also urged residents to remain calm as the city works to understand the full extent of the situation.

Chief Rivera echoed the mayor’s sentiments, reaffirming that the East Chicago Police Department was not involved in the federal operation and does not participate in immigration enforcement activities. “Our department’s mission is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, regardless of immigration status,” Rivera said. “We want our community to know that we are here to protect and serve, not to instill fear.”

The incident has also mobilized community action. A protest is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m., with organizers calling on residents to voice their disapproval of ICE’s tactics and the broader implications for immigrant communities in East Chicago.

As the video continues to circulate and the city awaits further details from federal authorities, local officials are encouraging residents to reach out with any concerns. The East Chicago Police Department can be contacted at 219-391-8400.

For now, the community remains on edge, with many awaiting clarification on the arrest and its implications for the relationship between federal immigration enforcement and local governance.