URGENT UPDATE: In a surprising turn of events, both the NYPD and federal agents from ICE converged on Canal Street in Manhattan early Saturday morning as they conducted separate raids targeting counterfeit goods.
Around 10 a.m., NYPD officers executed their operation near Broadway, successfully seizing 26 counterfeit items before federal agents arrived on the scene. The NYPD confirmed they were unaware of ICE’s intentions to act simultaneously. Following the unexpected encounter, NYPD officials decided to exit the scene after making one arrest related to the counterfeit goods.
The actions of ICE followed closely on the heels of a meeting between Mayor-elect Mamdani and President Trump at the White House just one day prior. Trump remarked, “If they need it, now other places need it more but if they need it, we had a very good meeting yesterday and we talked about that.” This statement has raised eyebrows regarding the timing of the federal crackdown.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that ICE agents detained an undocumented immigrant from Senegal during their operation. Notably, this individual had previously been arrested twice by the NYPD and had been released from their custody before ICE could take action.
These simultaneous raids highlight the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat counterfeit operations while raising questions about coordination between local and federal agencies.
As the situation develops, officials urge the public to remain vigilant about counterfeit goods in the area. Authorities will continue to monitor Canal Street closely in the coming days.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
