The administration of US President Donald Trump has ordered hundreds of additional federal agents to be sent to Minneapolis, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) carries out what it has called the “largest immigration operation ever” in the United States.

This decision comes just days after a 37-year-old Minnesota resident, Renee Nicole Good, was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. According to DHS, Good was “shot in the face” during an encounter that officials have described as a response to an alleged act of domestic terrorism. The incident has sparked widespread anger and protests across the country.

Speaking to Fox News, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said more officers are being deployed to Minneapolis to ensure the safety of ICE and Border Patrol agents working in the city. “We’re sending more officers today and tomorrow,” she said, adding that hundreds more agents would be present to support immigration enforcement operations.

Noem defended the ICE agent involved in the shooting, repeating the administration’s claim that Renee Good’s actions amounted to domestic terrorism. She said the agent acted in self-defence when he fired at Good while she was inside her car.

However, the incident has been strongly criticised by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. They said video footage from the scene shows that Good’s vehicle was moving away from the agent, and that she did not appear to pose a threat to his life. Both leaders have questioned the administration’s version of events.

Despite concerns being raised and the investigation still in its early stages, Noem defended President Trump’s immigration policies in an interview with CNN. She said the president’s actions are focused on keeping Americans safe.

President Trump has also spoken about the incident, calling Good “violent” and “very disrespectful to law enforcement.” He claimed that protesters like her are professional agitators and said police officers should not have to tolerate such behaviour.

On Sunday, January 11, tensions rose again in Minneapolis as clashes broke out between protesters and federal agents outside an ICE facility. Officers were seen using pepper spray against demonstrators holding protest signs.

Since the shooting, thousands of people have joined peaceful protests in cities across the United States, demanding a full and transparent investigation into Renee Good’s death.