Exclusive: FBI data shows 10,553 immigration-related arrests since January

FBI Director Kash Patel has been instrumental in leading the bureau’s efforts to assist the Department of Homeland Security in carrying out the Trump administration’s immigration agenda. Since January, the FBI has made a total of 10,553 immigration-related arrests, according to exclusive data reviewed by Fox News Digital.

Recent operations have resulted in significant arrests, including a sweep on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard in May. The FBI, in collaboration with ICE, apprehended about 32 individuals on the two islands, including an alleged MS-13 gang member and a man facing child rape and pornography charges.

Patel has been actively highlighting these arrests on social media, underscoring the bureau’s commitment to targeting criminal immigrants. One notable arrest in April was Harpreet Singh, wanted in India for terrorism-related activities and entering the U.S. illegally in 2022.

The FBI’s increased focus on immigration enforcement under Patel’s leadership reflects a shift in priorities in response to the surge in illegal migration during the Biden administration. Erica Knight, a spokesperson for Patel, emphasized that the bureau is now prioritizing the apprehension of violent cartels and criminal networks exploiting the border crisis.

Out of the FBI’s approximately 38,000 employees, over 13,000 have been involved in immigration enforcement tasks since January. The Los Angeles field office has seen the highest number of employees working on immigration-related assignments, followed by offices in Philadelphia, Houston, and San Antonio.

The bureau’s collaboration with DHS in immigration enforcement efforts marks a departure from previous practices. Under Patel’s direction, the FBI has launched interagency operations to address transnational organized crime and immigration enforcement, such as the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force.

While some FBI agents may have reservations about the bureau’s involvement in immigration enforcement, others see it as a necessary response to the current influx of migrants into the country. The retired FBI agent acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the current circumstances but emphasized the importance of leveraging the bureau’s resources for intelligence-gathering purposes.

Overall, the FBI’s role in supporting DHS with immigration arrests underscores the bureau’s adaptability in responding to evolving threats and challenges. By combining their investigative expertise with a focus on national security, the FBI is contributing to safeguarding the country’s safety and sovereignty.

Ashley Oliver is a reporter for Fox News Digital and FOX Business, specializing in covering the Justice Department and legal affairs. For story tips, contact Ashley at ashley.oliver@fox.com.