Post by : Shweta

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has affirmed that its agents deployed in Canada will not be armed as the FIFA World Cup draws near, addressing rising public inquiries regarding their role during this major event.

ICE officials explained that the agency's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit is operating in a limited, cooperative capacity. Their focus is primarily on aiding investigations into serious crimes like drug trafficking, human smuggling, and child exploitation. Importantly, ICE reiterated that they do not engage in enforcement actions on Canadian soil.

It was made clear that ICE agents lack the authority to arrest, conduct searches, or undertake operational duties in Canada. Furthermore, the agency confirmed that its personnel do not carry firearms while on duty within the country, and are stationed at U.S. diplomatic missions, including the embassy in Ottawa, as well as consulates in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal.

Canadian officials echoed this stance. A representative for Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree confirmed that ICE holds no legal jurisdiction in Canada, emphasizing that law enforcement and security responsibilities rest solely with Canadian forces.

As Canada prepares to co-host World Cup matches with the United States and Mexico, concerns regarding the involvement of foreign agencies have emerged. Toronto's Mayor Olivia Chow has lately voiced opposition to the presence of ICE agents during the tournament.

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have also raised alarms, indicating that even a minimal presence of ICE could incite fear among specific communities, given the agency's contentious track record in the U.S.

Despite these apprehensions, ICE insists that its role in Canada is purely supportive and non-executive. The agency noted that such cooperative models have been effectively utilized during past international events, allowing nations to tackle cross-border issues without meddling in domestic law enforcement.

As World Cup preparations advance, Canadian officials have been quick to reassure the public that all security measures will be controlled by Canadian authorities, with no role assigned to foreign agencies like ICE.

#world news #Canada News #CNI News #GlobalNews