In the US, 'Rotten Apple' Operation: 2,197 arrests

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) completed a comprehensive immigration operation that lasted about a month in the state of New York. Under the operation called “Operation Rotten Apple,” a total of 2,197 people were detained between July 27 and August 29, 2026. The figure was announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on September 1.

Serious Criminal Records Emerge

DHS reported that among those detained were individuals linked to murder, rape, sexual offenses against children, drug trafficking, and violent assaults. Federal authorities said the operation focused particularly on people with criminal records who required action due to their immigration status.

Criticism from Minister Mullin toward New York Administration

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin claimed the operation was carried out without the support of New York state and city authorities. Mullin said the work of federal teams contributed to public safety in the state and implied that more federal personnel could be sent to New York.

Reactions to ICE Agents

ICE New York Field Office Director Kenneth Genalo, however, claimed that during the operation federal immigration officers were threatened and targeted by some local residents and community members. Genalo said that the policies of local governments limiting cooperation with federal authorities required officers to locate certain individuals in neighborhoods, workplaces, or public spaces instead of prisons.

13,621 People Claim

DHS also alleged that New York's sanctuary city policies led to the release of irregular migrants with 13,621 prior criminal records back into society. This figure and assessment are based on statements from federal authorities; the New York administration does not accept these allegations.

Governor Hochul Denies Allegations

New York Governor Kathy Hochul denied the federal officials' accusations against the state administration. Hochul said that New York collaborates daily with federal law enforcement and is working to remove dangerous criminals from the streets. The governor also criticized the federal government over the resources allocated to law enforcement activities in the state.

ICE Response to Mamdani

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani also criticized the approach of the federal operation. Mamdani said that the city administration would communicate with federal authorities regarding individuals linked to serious crimes, while arguing that ICE operations should not portray migrants as criminals solely because of their legal status.

Names That Grab Attention in the Operation

Among the names released by DHS is Ukrainian citizen Bogdan Detrovich Gren. Officials say Gren has convictions for murder, kidnapping, kidnapping resulting in death, and possession of a weapon. Colombian citizen Andreas Bernal Chiquito was reportedly detained in the past on allegations of sexual offenses against children and assault of a child under 17.

Suspects from Different Countries

DHS announced that, within the operation, Mexican citizen Noel Celestino Lopez Martinez has a prior record for a first-degree rape charge, Indian citizen Palvinder Singh was convicted of rape in Germany, and Venezuelan citizen Carlos Mendez-Acosta has previously been sentenced for rape. Cambodian citizen Chhun Kim Pril was also noted to have a conviction for drug trafficking.

Federal Operations Will Continue

After the completion of "Operation Rotten Apple", federal officials announced that immigration operations in New York will continue. DHS Secretary Mullin said that despite disputes with state and local authorities, federal agencies will continue their operations and more personnel will be deployed if necessary.