COLONY RIDGE, Texas – A significant immigration enforcement operation has unfolded this week, as Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced actions targeting criminals and undocumented migrants within Colony Ridge. This unincorporated subdivision, located near Houston, is under intense scrutiny following rising concerns over crime and illegal residency.
The operation commenced early on February 24, 2025, with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Homeland Security Investigations. Abbott emphasized on social media, "Colony Ridge is being targeted today," signaling the collaborative efforts to crack down on alleged criminal activities. According to DPS leaders, the operation has been underway for months, reportedly coordinated with Tom Homan, President Trump's former border czar.
This large-scale operation has escalated the already tense atmosphere within Colony Ridge. Residents were taken aback by the sudden influx of law enforcement, with many reporting multiple traffic stops and apparent surveillance activities. Corley Peel, from KPRC 2, observed two traffic stops occurring at the intersection of County Road 3549 and County Road 3540, where Texas troopers and undercover agents were seen engaging drivers.
Surveillance footage captured by locals indicated the presence of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents making arrests during the operation. One resident's fear was palpable as they openly expressed, “We are scared for our family,” underscoring the anxiety rippling through the community.
While Isis of the buzz surrounding the operation has sparked serious safety concerns, many community members voiced their apprehension about the enforcement actions. Roberto Alfaro, echoing sentiments of worry, said, “We’re prepared; we are with an immigration attorney and have been saving up quite a lot.” The community has banded together, offering support and resources to one another amid the mounting anxiety.
The sentiments were echoed by Enrique Quintero, who witnessed the arrest of the owner of Payan Tire Shop, whom he described as "a good person" and nothing like the criminals targeted. "He’s no criminal. It’s sad because he’s been here for years and built everything he owns here," Quintero remarked, highlighting the dismay felt by many residents.
The operation continued without formal raids inside neighborhoods, with law enforcement primarily focused on traffic stops to deter illegal activity. Despite Governor Abbott's adamant stance on Colony Ridge as a "no-go zone" for law enforcement, DPS officials contested this depiction, stating it was not accurate.
Empowered by the urgency of the moment, community advocacy group FIEL Houston was highly active during the operation. Members drove through Colony Ridge, utilizing social media to notify residents about the presence of law enforcement and encouraging them to understand their rights. They urged, “¡No firme nada! Don’t sign anything! No hables! (Don't talk!),” spreading messages of caution to the vulnerable families concerned about potential fallout.
The shared apprehensions among residents echoed through the neighborhood. Families huddled together, as many worried about their friends and relatives amid the uncertainty of the operation. Demes Lopez, reflecting on her children’s anxiety about immigration enforcement, remarked, “I feel very bad about what is happening. We are afraid for our children, for our family.”
Community leaders, including Cesar Espinosa, executive director of FIEL, echoed the overarching sentiment: “There’s something happening.” His observations of the heavy police presence during the operation only added to fears circulating among the populace. He articulated concerns about the lasting impact on Colony Ridge, predicting it would have broader consequences for the community.
Esteban Mendez, the owner of El Mercadito y Mas, took it upon himself to lend aid to fearful neighbors by delivering groceries free of charge. “We’re doing it for the good of the people who have supported us,” Mendez affirmed, recognizing his responsibility to his community during these troubling times.
Overall, as the operation continues, Colony Ridge remains caught between increased law enforcement attention and the deep-rooted fears of its residents. This heightened tension, exacerbated by the perception of Colony Ridge as a hub for illegal activity, highlights the growing challenges faced by immigrant communities across the state. With many watching closely and waiting for additional developments from law enforcement, the outcome of this operation is fraught with uncertainty, leaving many residents anxious about their future.