ICE Agents In Canada Do Not Carry Guns Before World Cup

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has clarified that its agents operating in Canada do not carry firearms, as questions grow ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches scheduled in Canadian cities. The statement comes amid public concerns about the agency’s presence during the global sporting event.

According to ICE officials, personnel from its Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit are currently working in Canada only in a limited and cooperative role. Their work focuses on supporting investigations related to serious crimes such as drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, human trafficking, and child exploitation. However, the agency emphasized that its agents do not carry out enforcement actions in Canada.

ICE confirmed that its agents do not have the authority to make arrests, conduct searches, or perform operational activities on Canadian soil. It also clearly stated that its personnel do not carry firearms while working in the country. These agents are assigned to U.S. diplomatic missions, including the embassy in Ottawa and consulates in cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal.

Canadian officials have also reinforced this position. A spokesperson for Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said that ICE has no legal jurisdiction in Canada. The spokesperson added that Canadian law enforcement agencies are solely responsible for maintaining security and enforcing laws within the country.

The issue has gained attention as Canada prepares to host several World Cup matches alongside the United States and Mexico. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver are set to host games, and local leaders have raised concerns about any potential involvement of foreign agencies. Toronto’s Mayor Olivia Chow recently supported a motion opposing the presence of ICE agents during the tournament.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have also expressed concern. They warned that even a limited presence of ICE officers could create fear among certain communities, especially given the agency’s controversial record in the United States.

Despite these concerns, ICE has maintained that its role in Canada remains strictly supportive and non-operational. The agency highlighted that similar arrangements have been used in international events before, where cooperation between countries helps address cross-border crimes without interfering in domestic law enforcement.

As preparations for the World Cup continue, officials in Canada have reassured the public that all security measures during the tournament will remain under Canadian control, with no enforcement role given to foreign agencies like ICE.