Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has sharply criticized the FBI, calling it “corrupt” and accusing the agency of leaking sensitive information about upcoming ICE raids in Los Angeles. Her strong words came after a report in the LA Times revealed details of a large-scale immigration enforcement operation planned for the area.
Leaked information raises alarm
The LA Times reported on Friday that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was preparing for a major operation targeting individuals without legal status or those with pending removal orders. The operation, which was still in the planning stages, was reportedly leaked through an internal government document, which was seen by the LA Times.
The document apparently made its way to government officials last week, with some sources claiming that the FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) would assist with the operation. The leak, according to DHS Secretary Noem, has raised serious concerns about the integrity of government agencies.
Noem fires back on social media
Noem wasted no time expressing her frustration, taking to social media platform X to blast the FBI. “The FBI is so corrupt,” she wrote, adding that she would be working with all agencies to stop the leaks. She vowed to prosecute those responsible for the leak, calling them “crooked deep state agents.” Her comments came as part of her continued push to ensure national security and law enforcement success.
ICE sources deny knowledge of the leak
ICE officials have since spoken out, expressing confusion over the source of the leaked information. According to ICE sources, they are unsure where Noem got her claims or what evidence she has to back them up. The controversy only added to the tension between DHS and the FBI, as officials from both agencies attempted to clarify the situation.
No comment from the FBI
When asked for a comment, the FBI remained tight-lipped, refusing to provide any statement about the leak or Noem’s accusations. The lack of response has only fueled speculation about internal conflicts within federal agencies and their handling of sensitive immigration operations.
Attorney General warns against leaks
Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi weighed in on the issue during a Fox News interview. She emphasized the dangers posed by leaks, warning that revealing such information could endanger law enforcement officers involved in the operation. “If you leaked it, we will find out who you are, and we will come after you,” Bondi said, underscoring the serious consequences of compromising national security efforts.
The risks of obstruction
Bondi also addressed concerns about people actively warning illegal immigrants about impending ICE raids. In some locations, individuals have used bullhorns to broadcast information about the raids, alerting those targeted to take evasive action. Bondi said that such actions could potentially be classified as obstruction, adding that the Department of Justice would thoroughly investigate any efforts to undermine law enforcement efforts.
Investigations will continue
Bondi made it clear that the government would take swift action against anyone found to be obstructing law enforcement. “If you leak, if you do anything like you said, if you come out with bullhorns that could jeopardize their lives, we will investigate it, and we will come after you,” she said. The DOJ has promised to hold individuals accountable for any actions that threaten the safety of law enforcement personnel or disrupt official operations.
Despite the challenges and ongoing leaks, the mission of making America safer will not be derailed, according to Bondi. “It’s not going to stop our mission. It’s not going to stop the president’s mission to make America safe again,” she emphasized, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to immigration enforcement and national security.
In the coming days, we can expect further developments on this story as investigations into the leak continue and the government prepares for the LA-based ICE operation.
