Since early June 2025, immigration raids across California—particularly in Los Angeles and farm regions like Oxnard and the Central Valley—have intensified significantly. Federal agents have targeted fields, factories, day‑labor sites, Home Depot lots, and even schools, leading to more than 1,600 arrests and widespread fear.
Why This Matters
- Educational fallout: A Hoover Institution study links the raids beginning January 2025 to a 22% spike in student absences across Central Valley schools—pre‑K students saw a 32% increase—as fearful families kept children home.
- Economic damage: UC Merced data shows a 3.1% drop in employment statewide, equating to over 460,000 lost jobs among citizens and non-citizens alike. Construction, agriculture, and service sectors are deeply affected.
- Community disruption: Business in immigrant-centered neighborhoods has plummeted. Residents avoid clinics, markets, schools, and public transit. Experts describe the social climate as terrorized.
Personal Stories & Tragic Incidents
- In Camarillo, a raid on Glass House Farms detained over 200 people and led to the tragic death of Jaime Alanís, a 57-year-old worker who fell 30 feet attempting to evade agents. Legal professionals, educators, and family members claim some detainees were U.S. citizens.
- A CSU Channel Islands professor was arrested amid protests. Observers say he was assisting a wheelchair‑bound demonstrator—not resisting force as accused.
Impact on Local Economy & Infrastructure
- Construction sites and renovations in L.A. have stalled as landscapers, framers, and other laborers go into hiding or refuse to work. Real estate firms report delays in major projects.
- Small businesses in heavily immigrant-populated areas report significant declines in foot traffic and sales, with ripple effects across suppliers and service industries.
State & Civic Reaction
- California officials, led by Senator María Elena Durazo, condemned the raids as racial profiling and violation of sanctuary state laws. A resolution was introduced denouncing militarized enforcement and defending constitutional protections.
- Schools, churches, and hospitals—once deemed “safe zones”—are no longer exempt from raids, eroding trust in public institutions and generating community fear.
Rather than targeting serious criminal threats, the raids are threatening the backbone of California’s communities. Education, local economies, mental health, and even basic public services are facing lasting damage. Unless enforcement strategies shift toward more measured approaches, the state risks deepening social fractures and economic instability.
About the author
Conseil des ministres au Burkina Faso : session présidée par Ibrahim Traoré à Ouagadougou
Le Conseil des ministres du Burkina Faso s’est réuni à Ouagadougou le jeudi 12 mars 2026 pour une séance ordinaire présidée par Ibrahim Traoré, Président du Faso et Président du Conseil des ministres. La réunion s’est tenue de 09 h 00 à 11 h 01 et a permis d’examiner plusieurs dossiers inscrits à l’ordre du jour. Principaux points abordés Au cours de cette séance, le Conseil des ministres a : délibéré sur plusieurs dossiers relatifs à la gestion des affaires de l’État ; entendu une communication orale portant sur des questions d’intérêt national ; procédé à des nominations dans l’administration publique ; autorisé certaines missions officielles à l’étranger. Cette session s’inscrit dans le cadre des réunions ordinaires du gouvernement visant à assurer la conduite des politiques publiques, la coordination de l’action gouvernementale et le suivi des décisions de l’exécutif. Le […]
Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong Thanks Mahama for Appointment as Fire Service Chief
Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, the Chief Fire Officer and Director-General of the Ghana National Fire Service, has expressed deep appreciation to John Dramani Mahama for appointing her to lead the service. Speaking in an interview on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, Madam Ntow Sarpong also extended her gratitude to Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and the governing National Democratic Congress for the confidence placed in her leadership. “I want to use this opportunity to thank President Mahama, Vice President Prof. Jane Naana, and the entire NDC government for the confidence reposed in me and for honouring me with this leadership role,” she said. Commitment to Serve The Fire Chief pledged to meet the expectations attached to the position, assuring both government and the public of her dedication to the role. “I pledge to fulfil my mandate and discharge my duties […]
No Ghanaian Casualties in Middle East Tensions – Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed that no Ghanaian has been killed or injured following the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, as government steps up efforts to protect its citizens in the region. In a Facebook update on Tuesday, March 3, the Minister revealed that he convened a virtual meeting with Ghana’s Ambassadors and Consuls General across the Middle East to assess the situation and coordinate further consular interventions. “This evening, I convened a virtual meeting with our Ambassadors and Consuls General in the Middle East to assess the latest developments and explore further consular interventions towards the protection of Ghanaians,” he stated. Diplomatic Coordination Across the Region Heads of Mission from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Iran and Turkey participated in the discussions. “I am glad to report that so far no Ghanaian […]
IET-GH Marks World Engineering Day, Highlights Engineers’ Role in Ghana’s Development
The Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana has joined the global engineering community in marking World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, observed annually on March 4 and endorsed by UNESCO. In a statement issued to commemorate the day, the Institution highlighted the central role engineers play in Ghana’s development. It noted that engineering remains vital to infrastructure delivery, environmental protection, industrial growth, and technological progress. Engineering at the Heart of National Development According to IET-GH, Ghanaian engineers are providing practical solutions to major national challenges, including climate change, sanitation, energy transition, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable urban development. The Institution reaffirmed its commitment to ethical standards, innovation, and professional excellence, stressing that the country’s long-term growth will depend heavily on the expertise, creativity, and integrity of its engineers. It also encouraged young people to consider careers in engineering, describing the profession […]
Ga Traditional Council Summons KOKA Over Comments About COCOBOD CEO
The Ga Traditional Council has summoned entertainment critic Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, over comments he allegedly made on social media concerning the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board, Dr. Randey Abbey. In a formal letter, the Council directed KOKA to appear before Ga chiefs and priests at the Ga Mantse Palace on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The traditional authorities stressed the importance of his presence, urging him to treat the invitation with urgency and seriousness. “Your presence is respectfully requested to address the matter and offer any necessary explanations. Kindly treat this invitation with the seriousness it deserves,” the letter stated. The correspondence was signed by the Secretary of the Court of Priests of Ga, acting on behalf of the Chief Priest of the Ga Traditional Area.
Ghana to Declare 21 Marine Protected Areas Starting at Greater Cape Three Points
Ghana is preparing to declare 21 coastal communities as Marine Protected Areas in a major step toward restoring marine biodiversity and strengthening fisheries management. The first declaration is expected to take place at Greater Cape Three Points in the Western Region. Once designated, fishing activities within the protected zones will be restricted to allow depleted fish stocks to recover. Part of the Global 30×30 Target The move forms part of Ghana’s commitment to the global 30×30 target, which calls for the protection of at least 30 percent of the world’s land and ocean areas by 2030. The goal falls under Target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework and has been adopted by more than 190 countries. Despite the widespread commitment, progress remains slow. Since 2022, global reviews show that only about 2.9 percent of the ocean is fully or highly […]
Related
Trump says Iran’s new Supreme Leader is alive but “damaged”
United States President Donald Trump says he believes Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, is still alive but “damaged” after the US and Israel’s opening strikes on Iran. Mojtaba, whose father and former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed on the first day of the war, has not been seen in public since he was selected by Iran’s Assembly of Experts on March 8. His first comments to the nation were delivered as a written message read out by a television presenter, fuelling speculation about his condition. An Iranian official told Reuters that the new leader was “lightly injured” and continues to function, with state TV referring to him as “war wounded.” Asked about rumours that Mojtaba might be dead or incapacitated, Trump told Fox News’ “Brian Kilmeade Show”: “I think he probably is (alive). I think he is […]
Iran conflict: US embassy warns of possible Abuja protests
The United States embassy in Abuja has warned its citizens about the possibility of protests in Nigeria’s capital linked to the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. In a security alert, the embassy said there is a high potential for demonstrations in Abuja on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, noting that previous protests by some groups have led to violent clashes with Nigerian security forces. The embassy advised US citizens in Abuja to remain in their homes on that day, avoid protest areas and large gatherings, and maintain a low profile while monitoring local media for updates. It also urged them to review their personal security plans, keep their phones charged, carry valid identification, and stay alert in public spaces such as markets, malls, and places of worship. The embassy further encouraged citizens to familiarise themselves with emergency exits in […]
Oil Prices Jump Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis
Global oil prices climbed sharply after Iran intensified strikes across the Middle East, raising fears of disruption to energy supplies. Brent crude, the international benchmark, jumped 10% on Monday to briefly exceed $82 per barrel following reports that at least three vessels were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend. Natural gas prices also surged by up to 25% amid concerns about supply constraints. Iran warned commercial vessels against passing through the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20% of global oil and gas shipments transit. Shipping activity at the entrance to the strait has slowed dramatically, with analysts cautioning that a prolonged disruption could drive energy prices significantly higher. In the UK, the FTSE 100 opened nearly 1% lower, with airline shares hit by widespread airspace closures across the Middle East. European markets experienced sharper losses: France’s CAC […]
US lawmaker: Christians suffer most from Nigeria’s violence, urges Trump to act
United States lawmaker Riley Moore says Christians have borne the overwhelming brunt of violent attacks in Nigeria for over 20 years and urged President Donald Trump to take decisive action. Moore said insecurity affects people of all faiths but insisted that Christians are disproportionately targeted. He claimed Christians are about five times more likely to be killed than any other religious group and accused Fulani militias and terrorist organisations of repeatedly attacking Christian communities, pastors and priests, and burning schools and churches, often on holy days. He praised Trump’s readiness to defend Christians globally and described the current moment as a once in a generation opportunity to deepen US–Nigeria relations while confronting the crisis. He acknowledged that Nigeria needs support to tackle insecurity but said President Bola Tinubu’s government must show stronger political will. Moore argued that any future bilateral […]
Modi visits Israel as US Iran tensions rise
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Israel on Wednesday for a two day visit that both governments say will deepen ties, as fears grow over a possible military clash between the United States and Iran. Modi, a Hindu nationalist, was the first Indian prime minister ever to visit Israel in 2017, when he and Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu famously walked barefoot together on a Haifa beach. The two men remain in power nearly nine years later and describe each other as friends. During this visit they are expected to hold talks on artificial intelligence and defence cooperation at a time when Israel is seeking to expand its military exports. An Israeli government official said the trip would pave the way for new partnerships in many sectors, while a foreign ministry official said bilateral relations were close to a significant […]
Islamic leaders reject US call on Sharia, blasphemy laws
Islamic leaders in Nigeria have rejected a recommendation by a United States congressional panel asking the Federal Government to scrap Sharia and blasphemy laws, saying the demand touches on national sovereignty, the constitution and fragile interfaith relations in the country. Those who spoke include an official of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs who asked not to be named, Sheikh Sidi Munir of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Nurudeen Khalid, former Chief Imam of the National Assembly Legislative Quarters Juma’at Mosque in Abuja, and Professor Ishaq Akintola, Executive Director of Muslim Rights Concern. The US panel’s report followed hearings, expert consultations and fact-finding visits to Nigeria and suggested possible sanctions, visa bans and a new security partnership to protect vulnerable communities, while also urging Nigeria to show clear action against religious persecution and insecurity. Responding, the NSCIA official […]