United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Established in 2003, ICE's mission is to protect national security and public safety primarily by enforcing immigration and customs laws within the United States. ICE performs a broad range of responsibilities that include criminal investigations, immigration law enforcement, and customs enforcement. The agency's key roles involve detaining and deporting unauthorized immigrants, investigating transnational criminal organizations, preventing terrorism, and combating illegal movement of people and goods. ICE is divided mainly into two components: Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), focusing on criminal investigations, and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), responsible for apprehending and deporting unauthorized immigrants. ICE operates domestically across the U.S. and has offices internationally. The agency was formed in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks to consolidate various immigration and customs functions. It is known for its controversial role in immigration enforcement, including raids and detentions related to illegal immigration. In summary, ICE is the central federal agency tasked with upholding immigration and customs laws in America to maintain national security and public safety.
