# US immigration enforcement and detention surge > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-immigration-enforcement-and-detention-surge > Updated: 2026-09-04T05:49:05.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has significantly increased its enforcement activities, with reports indicating a nationwide target of approximately 2,000 immigration arrests per day. Initial surges in activity were noted in Long Island and at domestic airports, prompting travel alerts for visa holders and causing some airlines to implement protocols to verify law enforcement documentation. By June, ICE recorded over 43,000 arrests, the highest monthly total since the return of President Donald Trump to office. This surge resulted in severe overcrowding in temporary holding centers, which have seen average monthly populations increase fivefold. These facilities have reportedly lacked basic amenities and faced issues with unsanitary conditions and untreated illnesses. In response to these logistical challenges and legal pushback regarding a $1 billion plan to repurpose commercial warehouses, the Department of Homeland Security is shifting its strategy. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin acknowledged lapses in due diligence regarding the warehouse initiative, and the administration is now pivoting toward expanding existing facilities and reopening shuttered lockups through private prison contractors. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-04: ICE shifts detention strategy amid surge in arrests ICE arrests surged to over 43,000 in June, causing severe overcrowding in temporary holding centers. The DHS is now pivoting from repurposing warehouses to expanding existing facilities and reopening old jails. 10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ice-shifts-detention-strategy-amid-surge-in-arrests ### 2026-08-08: ICE ramps up enforcement in Long Island and domestic airports ICE has ramped up enforcement activities, with reports of increased sightings in Long Island and a nationwide target of 2,000 daily arrests, prompting legal warnings for visa holders. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ice-ramps-up-enforcement-in-long-island-and-domestic-airports --- Cite as: US immigration enforcement and detention surge. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-immigration-enforcement-and-detention-surge