Federal Operation Focuses On Criminal Illegal Immigrants As Arrests Continue Statewide In “Operation Catch Of The Day”
Thursday, January 22, 2026, 7:15 A.M. ET. 4 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges, Political Editor: Englebrook Independent News,
PORTLAND, ME.- Earlier this week, federal immigration authorities launched a coordinated enforcement operation across the state of Maine aimed at locating and apprehending undocumented immigrants with documented criminal histories. The operation, informally referred to by federal officials as Operation Catch of the Day, is being conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in partnership with Customs and Border Protection, under the oversight of the Department of Homeland Security.
Federal officials confirmed that the enforcement effort is focused exclusively on individuals with prior criminal convictions or outstanding warrants who are unlawfully present in the United States. The operation marks one of the most significant immigration enforcement actions conducted in Maine in recent years.
As of Thursday, January 22, 2026, ICE officials reported that approximately 50 criminal illegal immigrants have been apprehended in multiple Maine communities, including Portland, Lewiston, and Westbrook. Authorities further estimate that roughly 1,400 additional individuals statewide with criminal records remain under active review for potential arrest as the operation continues.
Named Apprehensions And Criminal Histories;
Federal officials released limited identifying information on several individuals apprehended during the initial phase of the operation, citing public-safety considerations and the seriousness of the offenses involved.
Among those taken into custody were:
- Dominic Ali, a national of Sudan, was previously convicted of false imprisonment, aggravated assault, assault, obstruction of justice, and violation of a protective order.
- Ambessa Berhe, a national of Ethiopia, was convicted of aggravated assault and cocaine possession.
- Elmara Correia, a national of Angola, was previously arrested for endangering the welfare of a child.
- Dany Lopez-Cortez, a national of Guatemala, was convicted of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
According to ICE officials, these cases reflect the broader enforcement priorities guiding the operation. Law enforcement sources confirmed that additional individuals being sought statewide are wanted for crimes including sexual assault, rape of a child, drug trafficking, repeated DUI offenses, and other violent or dangerous conduct.
Enforcement Strategy And Federal Coordination;
The operation involves coordinated efforts between ICE field agents, CBP tactical units, and federal task forces to execute arrests safely and lawfully. DHS officials emphasized that each apprehension is supported by criminal history documentation and immigration records, and that all individuals taken into custody will proceed through established legal and immigration processes.
Federal authorities noted that Maine’s limited historical cooperation with immigration enforcement efforts contributed to the decision to conduct a federally led operation with expanded resources and personnel.
Officials further stressed that the enforcement action complies with federal law and due-process requirements, and that no broad sweeps or random stops are being conducted.
Public Safety And Community Response;
Supporters of the enforcement operation argue that prioritizing the removal of criminal illegal immigrants strengthens public safety and reinforces the rule of law. Federal officials stated that communities are safer when individuals convicted of serious offenses are removed through lawful immigration channels.
At the same time, some local officials and advocacy groups have expressed concern about potential fear within immigrant communities. Federal authorities countered that the operation is narrowly focused on individuals with documented criminal behavior and does not target families or non-criminal residents.
Local leaders have urged residents to remain calm and to respect lawful federal activity while the operation continues.
Ongoing Operation;
DHS and ICE confirmed that enforcement actions in Maine remain ongoing and that additional arrests are expected in the coming days and weeks. Officials reiterated that the mission remains centered on identifying and removing individuals whose criminal conduct poses clear risks to public safety.
Federal authorities stated that updated arrest totals will be released as operational phases conclude.
Editor’s Note:
This article was written by Jennifer Hodges, Political Editor for Englebrook Independent News, and is based on verified information provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement leadership briefings, and corroborated regional reporting. Arrest totals and identifying details reflect information available as of January 22, 2026, and may change as enforcement actions continue.
